1210 
.» 


A  MEXICAN  MILITARY  ROMANCE. 


I 


OR,      THE 


Hatrd)o:00  of  tlje  JJotson^  Cattce* 


— A   TALE  OF  THE— 


Author  of 'Big  Di 


BY  HARRY  HAZEL, 

'  J*?™'  *?M*W  '  Middy  of  the  Macedonian,'  •  JVun  of  St.  Ursula  ' 
«  TAe  Burglars,'  «  W«rf  p0£,rf  Codrf,'  e/c. 


'• 


BOSTON : 
'STAR  SPANGLED  BANNER'  OFFICE,  82  WASHINGTON  ST. 

1848. 

[ENTERED,  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1847,  by  JUSTIN  JONES,  in  the  Clerk's  Office 
of  the  District  Court  of  Massachusetts.] 


i-Z-lo 
,  I 


Bfcocioft  Library 


TO 

THE  OFFICERS  AND  SOLDIERS 

COMPOSING    THE 

ARMIES  OF  THE  UNITED  STATES, 

WHOSE    RECENT    UNPARALLELED 

VICTORIES    IN    MEXICO, 

I  HAVE    PROVED    TO    THE    WORLD    THEIR    INVINCIBILITY 

IN   THE   BATTLE  FIELD, 


IS   RESPECTFULLY  INSCRIBED,  BY 
THEIR  HUMBLE  SERVANT, 


HARRY   HAZEL. 


f 


1 


CHAPTER  I. 


In  whisk  our  readers  arc  introduced  to  a  very  pretty  girt — to  the  milage,  in  which 
she  resided,  and  to  an  old  soldier  who  had  '  done  the  state  some  service*  An  Interest- 
ing Interview,  News  from  the  \Var.  Arrival  of  a  Recruiting  Officer \  Symptoms 
nf  an  Excitement. 

her,  before  we  begin  to  weave  tbe  curious 
and  mysterious  plots  and  counterplots  which 


OSALIA    GRANVILLE 

pretty,  blue-eyed,  rosy-cheeked 
Rosalia — everybody  knew  her 
—that  is,  every  body  who  re- 
sides within  two  leagues  round 
nbout  the  beautiful  village  of*  L «j,  sit- 
uated— we  sha'nt  tell  exactly  the  spot — but 
somewhere  north  of  Mason  &/  Dixon's  Line ; 
find  if  the  reader  can  boast  of  Yankee  ori- 
gin, he  will  be  able  to  guess,  if  he  but  fol- 
low us  through  the  startling  adventures  of 
his  romance  in  real  life.  We  feel  a  decid- 
ed reluctance  in  divulging  the  locale  of  sev- 
eral of  our  characters,  for  the  very  simple 
reason,  that  they,  being  naturally  sensitive, 
mio-ht  demur  at  the  somewhat  free  use  we 

O 

intend  to  make  of  them  ;  and  when  they  re- 
turn from  the  wars,  flushed  with  victory,  and 
find  themselves  the  heroes  of  a  romance, 
their  belligerent  spirits  might  make  a  dem- 
onstration iti  a  quarter  where  it  would  be  de- 
cidedly disagreeable  to  our  feelings. 

"We  commenced  with  Rosalia  Granville, 


must  necessarily  characterise  our  story. — • 
Rose — as  she  was  familiarly  called  for  brev- 
ity's sake — we  said  was  pretty,  and  had  blue- 
eyes  ;  her  figure  was  petite^  sylph-like  in 
proportion,  and  light  and  agile  as  a  fairy- 
queen's  ;  but  these  qualities,  however  fasci 
nating,  were  the  least  of  Rose  Granville's 
charms.  Her  eyes,  like  all  blue  eyes,  were 
mild,  when  not  kindled  with  the  fire  that  is 
sometimes  hidden  within  the  soul,  even  of 
azure-eyed  beauties.  Seldom,  it  is  true,  did 
the  concealed  fire  radiate  from  her  counte- 
nance, Seldom  was  it  that  the  latent  spirit 
brought  into  activity  those  qualities  which 
the  world  had  not  yet  seen — but  when  they 
were  aroused,  her  eyes  twinkled  like  twin- 
stars  from  their  spheres,  full  of  fire,  soul,  life 
and  love. 

Rose  Granville,  within  the  little  circle  of 
her  acquaintance,  was  known  but  as  a  mild, 
amiable  beauty — intelligent,  witty,  agreea- 
ble and  lovely  withal.  She  was  envied  by 


and  we  wish  our  readers  to  know  more  of  jail  of  her  compeers  in  beauty,  and  loved  by 


10. 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


those  who  were  not  excited  by  envy,  because 
of  these  things ;  but  how  much  more  was 
there  in  her  character,  in  its  true  light,  that 
the  world — not  even  most  of  her  intimate 
friends — had  yet  discovered  or  dreamed  of. 
She  was  but  sixteen  yeers  of  age  when  we 
first  knew  her,  and  that  was  at  the  time  of 
the  earliest  events  of  this  romantic  narrative. 
Her  father,  who  had  had  much  experience  in 
his  country's  service,  and  who  arose  to  the 
rank  of  a  Major  of  Dragoons  in  the  army, 
had  now  retired,  for  the  purpose  of  spending 
the  remainder  of  his  days  peacefully  in  the 
society  of  the  only  being  then  living,  whom 
he  cherished  with  his  warmest  affections — 
his  wife  having  died  previous  to  the  surren- 
dering of  his  commission.  She  was  his 
second  wife — he  having,  when  quite  young, 
wedded  a  lady  of  rank  and  fortune,  while 
stationed  at  a  post  in  Florida,  by  whom  he 
had  one  child.  While  yet  in  its  infancy,  in 
one  of  the  predatory  incursions  of  the  Sem- 
inoles,  the  post  was  surprised  one  night 
when  young  Granville,  then  a  lieutenant, 
was  necessarily  absent,  and  nearly  the  whole 
garrison  was  cut  to  pieces  by  the  merciless 
savages.  Mrs.  Granville  was  among  the  first 
victims ;  and  while  yet  writhing  in  the  ago- 
nies of  death,  her  infant  was  snatched  from 
her  breast  by  an  old  squaw,  who  thrusting 
the  child  inlo  a  pack  upon  her  back,  carried 
it  off  to  her  wigwam. 

Soon  after  this  most  brutal  event,  young 
Granville  returned  to  the  north,  and  in  two 
years  was  again  married  to  a  beautiful  and 
accomplished  lady — the  mother  of  our  hero- 
ine. Twelve  years  passed  away,  and  Major 
Granville  followed  his  second  wife  to  her 
grave,  leaving  a  lovely  daughter  of  thirteen 
years  of  age  to  solace  his  declining  years. 

Granville  Cottage — for  by  this  title  was 
the  Major's  residence  known  to  his  neigh- 
bor's— was  one  of  those  delightful  rural 
abodes,  now  so  common  in  the  vicinity  of 
most  of  the  great  metropolises.  Here  Ro- 
salia and  her  father,  with  the  exception  of 
two  or  three  months  in  winter,  passed  their 


time;  and  besides  a  few  fashionable  accom- 
plishments, which  were  acquired  from  con> 
petent  teachers,  she  was  wholly  educated  by 
her  father.  He  having  received  his  educa- 
tion at  the  West  Point  Military  Academy, 
and  having  graduated  with  high  honors,  it 
will  not  be  thought  strange  that  he  should 
undertake  the  task  of  imparting  to  his  child, 
such  of  his  own  acquirements  as  might  be 
deemed  proper  and  useful.  Under  his  skil- 
ful tutelage  she  not  only  mastered  the'  Ger- 
man,  French  and  Spanish  languages,  but 
she  gained  also  a  tolerable  insight  into  Al- 
gebra, Geometry,  Astronomy,  and  other  im- 
portant branches.  Nor  was  her  parental  in- 
structor fully  satisfied  with  her  study  alone 
of  the  sciences,  but  he  took  delight,  so  far 
as  his  apparatus  would  admit  of  making 
her  practically  understand  what  she  had  ac- 
quired. This  may  be  thought  a  strange  ed- 
ucation for  a  young  girl — as  indeed  it  is — 
but  the  results  thereof  will  be  perceived  to 
have  a  slight  bearing  upon  many  of  the  in- 
cidents in  future  chapters  of  this  tale,  which 
we  hope  to  render  intelligible  to  all  who  fol- 
low us  to  the  conclusion.  Without  further 
introductory  words,  we  commence  our  plea- 
sing task. 

It  was  on  the  evening  of  the  twenty  sec- 
ond day  of  May,  1846— we  like  to  be  pre- 
cise when  we  can — that  Major  Granville  and 
his  daughter  were  seated  at  the  round  table 
in  the  centre  of  a  beautifully  furnished  apart- 
ment of  Granville  Cottage.  This  room  was 
the  repository  of  a  valuable  library,  which 
the  veteran  officer  had  collected  in  his  trav- 
els, and  the  rich  looking  books  arranged  up-  . 
on  the  shelves  around  the  walls,  indicated 
that  no  slovenly  hand  had  assigned  to  each 
volume  its  place.  A  few  pictures — rare 
specimens  from  the  life-giving  pencils  of 
those  masters  who  have  adorned  the  galle- 
ries of  Rome,  Florence  and  Naples — adorn- 
d  the  vacant  spaces  upon  the  walls,  while 
in  the  niches,  and  upon  brackets,  were  sev- 
eral busts  of  eminent  men,  and  statuettes  of 
Cupid  and  Psyche,  Diana,  Venus  de  Medi- 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


11 


cis,  and  other  copies  of  immortal  works  of 
poetical  statuary. 

In  an  antique,  straight,  high-backed,  arm- 
ed chair,  sat  Major  Granville,  devouring  the 
contents  of  several  newspapers,  which  that 
evening's  mail  had  brought  him ;  while  the 
fair  Rosalia  was  busy  in  plying  the  needle 
through  and  through  the  delicate  texture  of 
a  piece  of  lace — for  it  must  be  known  that 
her  domestic  education  had  not  been  neg- 
lected, in  order  to  make  her  a  greater  pro- 
ficient in  the  languages  and  in  sciences. 

'  Pshaw  !'  involuntarily  uttered  the  ex-mil- 
itary officer  ;  '  humbug  !' 

'  Pray  what  is  it,  father,  that  draws  from 
you  such  contemptuous  exclamations?'  ask- 
ed Rosalia. 

'  Why  here's  another  rumor  that  a  great 
battle  has  been  fought  on  the  Rio  Grande. 
These  newspapers  do  invent  such  improba- 
ble stories.' 

*  Do  read  it  aloud,  father,'  said  the  sweet- 
toned  voice  of  Rosalia.' 

'  By  Magnetic  Telegraph,'  read  the  Ma- 
jor. 'By  an  arrival  at  New  Orleans,  we 
have  rumors  that  a  great  battle  was  fought 
on  the  8th  instant,  at  Palo  Alto,  in  which 
the  Americans  with  fifteen  hundred  troops 
have  annihilated  the  Mexican  Army  under 
General  Arista,  who  with  a  force  of  six 
thousand  men  had  endeavored  to  frustrate 
General  Taylor  in  his  intention  of  relieving 
the  small  force  stationed  at  Point  Isabel.' 
4  All  moonshine,'  continued  the  Major,  '  the 
cowardly  Mexicans  would  not  dare  to  inter- 
cept Taylor.' 

1  It  may  be  true,'  suggested  Rosalia. 

'Can't  be!  all  a  guy,  depend  upon  it 
got  up  to  make  the  daily  papers  sell.' 

c  And  yet,  from  all  I  have  read  of  our  ar- 
my's movements  and  that  of  the  Mexicans 
in  the  vicinity  of  Matamoras,  I  think  it  no 
improbable  that  a  battle  has  been  fought.' 

«  Pshaw,  Rosa  !    What  do  you  know  abou 
army  movements  ?     To  hear  you  talk  one 
would  judge  you  to  have  been  an  old  cam 
paigner.' 


1  Ah,  but  you  forget  that  you  have  taught 
me  not  only  the  history  of  your  own  milita- 
y  life,  but  you  have  told  me  much  of  an- 
ient  warriors — the  victories  of  Alexander, 
he  world's  conqueror  ;  the  military  exploits 
f  Joan  of  Arc  ;  the  military  operations  of 
he  Father  of  our  country,  George  Washing- 
on ;  and  there  is  not  in  history  a  battle  or  a 
manoeuvre  of  Napoleon  Bonaparte,  but  what 
'.  have  read  or  heard  from  your  own  lips.' 

'  And  can  it  be  possible,  Rosa,  that  your 
memory  has  treasured  up  all  these  things, 
which  so  much  better  become  the  knowledge 
of  men  than  women?'  asked  the  veteran  offi- 
cer with  an  expression  of  surprise.' 

'  Those  things  which  you  love  to  know 
best  most  interest  me;  and  I  have  listened 
to  you  so  much  on  these  topics,  dear  father, 
that  I  have  not  only  learned  much,  but  feel 
an  interest  in  all  military  expeditions,  partic- 
ularly those  of  cur  own  gallant  army.' 

1  Well,  Rosa,  depend  upon  it  these  rumors 
are  untrue.' 

These  words  had  scarcely  escaped  his 
lips,  when  the  door-bell  rang,  and  a  servant 
soon  ushered  into  the  presence  of  the  Major 
and  his  daughter,  a  young  gentleman  of  no- 
ble and  dignified  mien,  of  about  txventy-three 
years  of  age. 

*  Welcome,  Clarence,  welcome  !'  said  the 
Major,  as  he  arose  and  cordially  shook  the 
hand  of  a  familiar  acquaintance  and  former- 
ly #.  neighbor  of  the  Granville  family— Clar- 
ence Clifton  by  name. 

'  You  are  quite  a  stranger,  Mr.  Clifton,' 
said  Rosalia,  taking  his  extended  hand,  while 
an  extra  tinge  of  crimson  suffused  her  deli- 
cate cheeks.  *  We  areglad  to  welcome  you 
to  our  village  again ;  be  seated.' 

'Well,  Clarence,'  said  the  Major  ;  'I  sup- 
pose you  are  just  from  York.  What  is  the 
intelligence  from  the  seat  of  war  ?  Some 
vague  rumors  have  reached  us  by  this  even- 
ing's mail.' 

'  The  rumors  at  New  York  of  yesterday, 
are  not  only  fully  confirmed,  but  instead  of 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


one  there  have  been  two  battles  fought  and 
two  victories  won  !' 

'  Glorious !  This  is  news,  indeed  !'  ex- 
claimed the  veteran  with  animation,  and  ri- 
sing from  his  chair,  rubbed  and  clapped  his 
hands,  and  paced  the  room  with  extatic  de- 
light. '  You're  sure  it's  no  humbug,  Clar- 
ence? You  know  these  newspapers  are 
such ' 

*  Oh,  I'm  positive  it's  true,'   interrupted 
Clifton.     '  Despatches  have    been  received 
at  Washington,  direct  from  General  Taylor.' 

<  There,  father  ;  did  I  not  say  it  was  quite 
probable,  and  yet  you  «  pshaw'd'  at  it  V  said 
Rosa,  playfully,  pleased  to  see  the  Major  in 
such  unusually  good  spirits. 

'  Ah,  you  little  hussy,  you  !  you'd  know 
more  of  military  matters  than  your  father, 
would  you  ?  This  girl,  Clarence,  has  fairly 
beaten  an  old  soldier  in  her  calculations,' 
said  the  Major,  addressing  the  last  sentence 
to  the  young  man.  '  But  come,  my  boy,  tell 
us  the  particulars.' 

'  The  first  battle  was  at  Palo  Alto  on  the 
8th  of  May  ;  the  second  at  Resaca  de  la 
Palma  on  the  9th.  But  poor  Ringgold ' 

*  Ringgold  !  the  gallant  Pvinggold  !'  repeat- 
ed the  Major,  his  eyes  gleaming  with  appre- 
hension.   *  Is  he  wounded  ? — is  he  a  prison- 
er ? — or  is  he ' 

'  Alas  !  he  was  killed  in  the  heat  of  the 
conflict!' 

*  Then  our  rejoicing  should  be  changed  to 
mourning !'  said  the  old  soldier,  as  he  wiped 
away  a  tear  that  glistened  in  his  eye.  *  Poor 
Punggold— brave,  gallant,  generous,  noble- 
hearted   man — well,   well,  the  bravest  and 
best  seem  to  be  cut  off  first.     I  almost  wish 
I   had  my  commission  again,  but  to  fly  to 
Mexico,  and  slay  with  my  own  right  arm 
enough  of  these  treacherous  devils  to  avenge 
his  death.' 

*  And  sorry  am  I,'  said   Clifton,  *  that  I 
declined  accepting   the  commission  which 
was  tendered  me  last  autumn  at  West  Point, 
at  the  time  I  graduated.     Had   I   supposed 
that  such  an  emergency  as  this  could  have 


arisen,  I  surely  should  have  accepted  it ; 
and  I  now,  Major,  have  come  to  my  native 
place,  for  no  other  purpose  than  to  endeavor 
to  raise  a  company  of  volunteers  under  the 
new  requisition,  and  to  obtain  a  captain's 
commission  from  the  Governor.  What  think 
you  of  the  project  ?  I  have  come  to  ask 
your  advice.' 

'  What  think  I  of  the  project,  Clarence  V 
ejaculated  the  Major.  *  What  should  an  old 
soldier  think  of  it,  when  the  country  calls 
for  the  young  and  the  brave  to  fly  to  arms ! 
You  shall  not  only  have  words  of  encourage- 
ment, but  all  the  influence  I  possess  shall  be 
exercised  in  aiding  you  to  carry  your  plans 
into  effect.' 

1  Thanks  !  my  generous  friend  !'  said  the 
young  man,  delighted  beyond  measure  at 
having  enlisted  Granville's  hearty  co-opera- 
tion. '  I  will  write  to  His  Excellency,  res- 
pecting a  commission,  this  very  night.  To- 
morrow morning  I  will  engage  recruiting 
quarters — display  the  Star  Spangled  Banner 
at  sunrise,  and  for  a  time  disturb  the  quiet 
of  this  peaceful  village  with  the  martial 
sounds  of  the  recruiting  fife  and  drum.' 

'Bravo!  bravo!'  exclaimed  the  Major; 
'damme,  it  makes  me  feel  at  least  ten  years 
younger,  just  to  think  of  these  things  again  ! 
Were  it  not  for  this  slight  lameness  in  my 
foot,  caused  by  a  shot  from  a  cursed  Semi- 
nole  rifle — the  infernal  red-skins — I'd  make 
an  effort  to  raise  a  company  myself.  I  would 
give  a  fortune  to  have  the  command  of  a 
company  of  dragoons,  while  this  war  lasts; 
or,  for  any  field  office,  from  a  Sergeant-Ma- 
jor  to  a  Major-General !  any  thing  that  I 
might  be  mounted,  to  hide  this  accursed 
game-leg  gait  of  mine  !  I  might — ay,  it  is 
very  probable — I  should  have  been  a-  Briga- 
dier by  this  time,  had  I  not  have  thrown  up 
rny  parchment.' 

*Well,  Major,!  must  bid  you  good  evening,' 
said  Clifton,  rising  to  take  his  departure ; 
'  and  should  be  pleased  to  confer  with  you 
further  to-morrow,  or  whenever  it  will  best 
suit  your  convenience.1 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


'  Leave  us,  Clarence  1  why,  so  hastily  1 
you  have  but  just  come.' 

'  I  must  write  to  the  Governor  to-night ; 
the  mail  leaves  at ' 

*  Nonsense — I  can't   listen   to   it — where 
did  you  leave  your  baggage?' 

'  At  the  Evergreen  Hotel !' 

'  Now  make  yourself  perfectly  easy — you 
shan't  leave  my  house  to-night  !  Here's 
your  quarters  !  Damme,  if  you  shall  camp 
under  any  roof  but  mine  in  this  burgh  ! — 
Here,  Sam ' 

'  I  thank  you,  Major,  for  your  tendered 
hospitality,  but ' 

'  Tut,  tut,  I  can't  listen  to  any  buts,'  in- 
terrupted Granville,  and  opening  the  door, 
cried  out — '  here,  Sam  !  Pat !  where  in  the 
devil  are  ye  ?' 

*  Ere  I  is,  massa — did  you  call  me,  massa?' 
said  black  Sam,  appearing  at  the  door,  and 
scratching  his  woolly  pate. 

'  Yes,  you  thunder  cloud  !   Where's  Pat  T 

*  In  de  kitchen,  'long  o'  de  cook,  massa  !' 
'Call  him   hither,    directly,   you    ace-of- 

spades,  you  !' 

'  Ees,  sah  !  I'll  fotch  him  along,  massa !' 

'  No,  by  the  powers,  you  won't,  ye  black 
divil,  ye  !'  said  Pat,  also  appearing.  '  I'll 
be  afther  hilping  meself.  '  What  'ud  yer 
'onor's  'onor  be  afiher  wanting  of  yer  'on- 
or's  most  obliging  of  safvants,'  continued 
the  Irishman,  bowing  low  to  his  master. 

'  None  of  your  blarney,  you  bogtrotter,  or 
f!ll  crack  your  skull  with  black  Sam's  co- 
coanut.' 

'  Yes,  yer  'onor,'  returned  Pat. 

'  Oh,  gorra,  Massa  !'  exclaimed  Sam,  feel- 
ing 6f  his  ebony  pate. 

*  Silence,  you   black  rascal !'  commanded 
the  Major.     '  Not  another  syllable  out  of  ei- 
ther of  your  heads;  but  get  you  along,  froth 
of  you,  to  the  Evergreen  Hotel,  and  bring 
hither  Mr.  Clifton's  baggage.     Do  you  hear, 
Sam?' 

'Ees,  sah;  I  duz,  massa.5 
'  Do  you  hear,  Pat?' 


'  Thunder  and  thurf,  yer  'onor,  I  could 
hear  if  you  didn't  spake  at  ail  a'tall.' 

'  Well,  then— Attention  !  Right  Face  ! 
Double  Quick  Time  !  Forward!— March  ».' 

The  servants  obeyed  the  martial  orders 
given,  and  Pat  and  Sam  vanished. 

Clarence  again  attempted  to  remonstrate. 

'  Major,'  said  he,  '  I  have  spoken  for  rooms 
and ' 

1  Tut,  tut,  what  of  it?  I  shall  counter- 
mand the  order.  I  have  better  quarters  here 
than  any  of  jwhich  the  Evergreen  can  boast. 
Make  no  excuses ;  but  consider  yourself 
encamped  under  my  roof  until  duty  calls  you 
abroad.' 

Clifton  perceiving  that  there  was  no  chance 
of  arguing  the  point  with  the  Major,  made 
no  farther  objections,  but  thought  best  t(» 
reconcile  himself  to  the  unexpected  solicita- 
tions of  his  military  friend. 

The  residue  of  that  evening  was  spent  in 
lively  conversation,  principally  upon  the  ex- 
citing events  of  the  8th  and  9th  of  May. — 
Neither  seemed  more  happy  than  the  fair 
Rosalia,  whose  sparkling  wit,  vivacity,  and 
general  knowledge  quite  captivated  the  em- 
bryo hero.  She  secretly  rejoiced  that  the 
handsome  youth  was  to  be  domicilled  for  a 
time  under  the  same  roof  with  her :  for  she 
felt  that  his  society  would  break  the  general 
monotony  of  the  village.  Granville  Cottage 
had  never  been  quite  so  lively  a  residence,  a* 
she  could  have  desired. 

The  evening  quickly  passed  away,  anff 
Clifton  was  escorted  to  the  apartment  assign- 
ed him  by  the  Major  himself.  He  retired 
to  rest — but  not  to  sleep — a  vision,  in  t^e 
shape  of  a  beautiful  girl,  haunted  his  imag- 
ination. •  According  to  his  pre-conoetved 
standard  of  female  loveliness  and  excellence, 
he  had  seen  and  conversed  on  that  evening, 
with  one  that  would  bear  a  maximum  test 
He  had  scanned  every  feature  with  the  scru- 
tiny of  a  sculptor,  and  found  them  perfect ; 
he  had  marked  her  figure,  and  saw  naught 
but  beauty  and  symmetry — its  every  move- 
ment natural  and  graceful  ;  he  had  noted 


14 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


her  musical  voice — a  syren's  could  not  have 
been  more  enchanting  ;  he  had  heard  from 
her  sweet  lips  words  of  wisdom,  tallies  of 
wit  and  humor,  smiles  of  joy  and  gladness ; 
he  had  seen  a  tear  of  pity  in  her  eye  for  the 
gallant  dead,  and  a  ray  of  hope  beam  from 
her  expressive  countenance  for  the  gallant 
living.  All  these  things  he  had  seen  blend- 
ed in  one  fair  creature — in  the  person  of 
Rosalia  Granville  !  He  wondered  that  these 
qualities  had  never  struck  him  before — he 
had  met  her  often — but  two  years  had  fled 
since  then.  The  young  man  did  not  realize 
he  change  which  two  years  often  makes  in 


young  maidens  of  a  particular  age.  He 
reflected  that  he  ^ad  never  felt  any  great  in- 
terest in  any  young  lady  until  now — and  he 
could  not,  he  dared  not  believe  that  he  did 
in  her — but,  at  all  events,  he  acknowledged 
himself  singularly  affected.  There  was  a 
chord  touched  in  his  heart  that  had  never 
vibrated  before ;  yet  he  could  not  have  de- 
fined or  described  the  peculiar  sensations 
which  thrilled  pleasingly  to  his  very  heart. 

It  was  near  morning  before  he  could  per- 
suade himself  to  sleep — and  when  he  did 
sleep,  he  dreamed  of— Rosalia  Granville  ! 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


CHAPTER    II. 


The  Recruiting  Station.  The  Village  in  a  state  of  Excitement.  Wonder  what  it's  all 
ahout.  Clifton's  First  Trial  at  Recruiting.  No  Success.  The  Major  comes  to  the 
Rescue.  A  Patriotic  Speech  and  Yankee  Doodle  '  does  up '  the  Business.  l  The 
Work  goes  Rraoely  on.'  The  First  Drill.  Discouragement  of  the  Recruiting  Officer. 
*  There's  Fight  in  Every  Mother's  Son  of  'em.' 


HE  second  morning  it  was,  af 
ter  Claieice  Clifton's  arrival 
that  th\e  peaceable  citizens  o 

,  were  thrown  suddenly 

into  a  state  of  excitement 
the  why  and  wherefore  had  not  yet  pene 
trated  their  agricultural  noddles.  It  was  no 
the  Seventeenth-o'-June,  nor  the  Fourth-o'- 
July,  nor  Washington's  Birth  Day,  nor  an) 
other  holiday  that  the  good  people  of  that 
'  burgh'  had  ever  heard  of;  yet  there  were 
the  *  stars  and  stripes'  waving  as  proudly  and 
gracefully  as  they  ever  did  on  Independence 
Day,  from  the  top  of  the  liberty-pole,  in  the 
square,  directly  in  front  of  the  '  Evergreen ; 
and  as  plainly  distinguishable  to  their  optics 
as  the  sun  which  was  just  rising  above  the 
reach-pole  of  Deacon  Powell's  barn  ;  a  thing 
unrecorded  in  the  town  annals  since  the  last 
war  with  the  mother  country. 

The  old  people  and  the  young  people,  the 
masculine  and  the  feminine,  looked  at  the 
waving  ensign  with  wondering  eyes  ;  the  par- 
son of  the  parish,  on  being  told  of  the  sin- 
gular event,  put  on  his  goggles  and  came 
forth  to  be  convinced  of  that  which  his  in- 
credulity would  not  admit.  For  two  hours 
had  the  object  of  their  curiosity  been  unfurl- 
ed to  the  breeze,  and  the  mystery  remained 
unsolved.  Some  suggested  that  the  Presi- 


dent, or  the  Governor,  or  the  Major  General, 
or  some  other  important  functionary  might 
have  arrived  during  the  night;  but  on  a  sec- 
ond thought  this  could  not  be,  for  there  was 
no   carriage   in    the    Evergreen    yard — no 
strange  hor&es  in  the  stable ;  and  the  mail- 
coach,  which  was  due  but  semi-weekly,  had 
arrived  the  night  previous  with  but  one  pas 
senger,  and  he  was  a  beardless  youth.     One 
little  boy,  with  a  red  head  and  a  '  thquinting' 
vision,  '  guethed  ath  how  the  Thircuth  wath 
coming  ;'  another,  who  wanted  to  *  see  the 
Elephant,'  reckoned  it  must  be  thatiwo-tail- 
ed  quadruped;   and  a  third  thought  possibly 
that  an  extra  *  Fourth-o'-July  '    might  have 
been    appointed,    and   gingerbread,    candy, 
and  egg-pop,  naturally  popped  into  his  pat- 
riotic  imagination.      The  landlord   of  the 
Evergreen'  pretended  to  know  something — 
ooked  wise,  but  kept  mum ;  even  he,  how- 
ever, did  not  really  comprehend  the  matter, 
>ut  he  knowingly  winked  at  one  or  two  of 
lis  familiar  acquaintances — his  most  profita- 
le  '  bar'  customers.     He  gave  them  to  un- 
lerstand,  by  shakes,  nods  and  winks,  that 

*  We  know  ;  or,  we  could  and  if  we   would  ;  or, 
fwe  list  to  speak,' 

»ut  not  a  word  did  he  utter. 

Thus   things   remained    until    about    tea 
'clock,  when  the  ears  of  the  '  wondering/ 


16 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


'  reckoning,'  and  'guessing'  villagers  were 
startled  by  the  quick,  stirring  tap-tap  and 
roll  of  a  drum,  accompanied  by  shrill  and 
piercing  strains  of  a  fife.  Toward  the  front 
door  of  the '  Evergreen7  all  eyes  were  brought 
to  a  focus.  From  it  marched  forth  Clarence 
Clifton,  with  a  drawn  sword  in  his  hand,  fol- 
lowed by  a  drummer  and  fifer,  and  a  tall, 
homespun  looking  plough-boy,  who  used  his 
best  endeavors,  though  without  success,  to 
keep  step  with  the  enlivening  and  warlike 
strains. 

The  villagers'  astonishment  increased — 
they  looked  more  mysterious  than  ever. 
They  had  seen  these  instruments  at  '  giner- 
al  musters'  and  '  May  trainings,'  a;  the  head 
of  the  '  sogers,'  but  all  of  them  declared 
that  they  had  never  seen  anything  so  *  dod- 
rotted  mean'  as  a  company  of  '  trainers'  of 
'onyjest'  four  persons,  including  captain, 
drummer  and  fifer. 

Clifton,  without  taking  any  particular  no- 
tice of  the  curious  assemblage,  marched  his 
music  and  his  solitary  recruit,  up  and  down 
the  principal  avenue,  and  through  every  by- 
path of  the  village,  where  a  human  habita- 
tion could  be  discerned,  and  in  the  course  of 
an  hour  and  a  half  halted  at  the  '  Evergreen' 
v/ithout  any  augmentation  of  his  force.  He 
sheathed  his  sword,  took  off  his  cap,  wiped 
the  perspiration  from  his  brow,  and  gave  a 
look  of  contempt  at  the  score  or  two  of  corn- 
fed,  beef-devouring,  hardy-looking  young 
fellows,  who  stood  gaping  upon  him  with  as- 
tonishment and  wonder. 

'  Wall,  I'm  darn'd  if  I  hain't  conclewed 
that  that  faller's  een  jest  crazy,'  remarked 
Sy  Sickle,'  a  hale,  hearty  specimen  of  a  Yan- 
kee plough-boy,  to  his  comrades.  '  What 
on  airth  can  the  critter  mean,  enny  haow? 
'Taint  the  Fourth-o'July,  nor  the  day  that 
Gineral  Washington  was  born  in,  nor  no 
day  of  that  ere  sort  or  kind,  but  a  plain 
working  day  ;  and  don't  you  see  there's  the 
school-marm  jest  calling  the  boys  and  gals 
inter  the  school-' us.  It  beats  all  natur — I 
can't  make  head  nor  tail  to  it,  I  yummy  I 
can't.' 


This  and  several  similar  remarks  were 
made  while  Clifton's  eye  was  upon  them,  a 
portion  of  which  fell  upon  his  ear.  Pres- 
ently Major  Granville  appeared,  who,  as  the 
curious  assemblage  hoped,  would  explain  the 
why  and  wherefore  of  this  unheard  of  man- 
ceuvreing  in  their  usually  quiet  and  orderly 
village. 

The  Major  stepped  up  to  Clarence,  and 
they  exchanged  salutes,  a  la  militaire. 

5  Well,  Clifton,'  said  the  veteran ;  '  what 
are  the  prospects?  any  enlistments,  eh?' 

'  None/  said  the  youth,  despairingly ;  '  I 
might  have  known  better  than  to  have  made 
the  attempt  to  raise  a  company  here.  Would 
to  Heaven  they  had  a  little  of  that  patriotic 
spirit  which  once  animated  the  souls  of  their 
grandfathers.  I  have  marched  my  music  al! 
through  the  town,  and  they  have  followed 
and  gaped  at  me  as  if  I  were  the  clown  of  a 
circus  company.' 

'  And  is  that  all  you  have  done  ?'  enquired 
the  Major. 

'  What  more  could  I  have  done  ?' 

*  Made  them  a  speech/ 

'  That  would  not  have  moved  them.' 

'I  tell  you  it  would — do  it  now — give  them 
something  patriotic — talk  of  glory,  blood 
and  thunder ! — give  it  to  'em  strong — noth- 
ing else  will  animate  their  hearts.' 

'  If  the  eloquence  of  the  fife  and  drum  fail 
to  move  them,  1  fear  that  mortal  lips  would 
move  them  less.' 

'  And  have  yon  not  spoken  to  them  at  all?' 

'  Not  a  syllable.' 

'  Nor  explained  your  object  ?' 

'  Not  in  words — I  have  marched  up  and 
down  the  street,  beating-up  for  volunteers — 
what  more  can  be  necessary  ?' 

'  Pooh  !  much  more — never  '11  do  in  the 
world,'  replied  the  Major,  with  animation  ; 
'  I'll  wager  my  best  chapeau  that  there  is  not 
one  of  those  verdant  gentlemen,  who  have 
even  the  most  distant  idea  of  your  object.' 

'  Can  it  be  possible  ?' 

1  Possible  ? — yes — anything  stupid  is  pos- 
sible in  this  plaee — of  that  I'll  convince  you. 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


17 


I'll  enlighten  these  dumb  statues  myself — 
I'll  give  them  a  touch  of  my  eloquence  in 
your  behalf.  They  already  look  upon  me  as 
die  Sir  Oracle  of  the  village.  Come,  strike  up 
Yankee  Doodle,  Hail  Columbia,  Star  Span- 
gled Banner — anything  stirring,  and  escort 
me  to  the  green.  I'll  see  what  can  be  done 
for  you.' 

Clifton  followed  Granville's  instructions — 
the  fife  and  drum  struck  up  a  patriotic  march, 
and  Clifton  escorted  the  Major  directly 
among  the  wondering  crowd.  A  chair  was 
brought  from  the  '  Evergreen/  and  placed  at 
the  foot  of  the  flag-staff,  and  while  the  fife 
and  drum  performed  a  salute,  Granville 
mounted  the  chair,  took  off  his  hat,  and  in 
the  politest  manner  possible,  solicited  the  at- 
tention of  the  audience  to  a  few  brief  re- 
marks which  he  deemed  it  his  duty  to  make 
to  them. 

Dumb  and  almost  breathless  seemed  the 
crowd  before  him,  while  he  explained  the  ob- 
ject of  his  young  and  gallant  military  friend 
— he  expatiated  at  length  bf  the  glory  to  be 
gained  upon  the  tented  field — dwelt  feeling- 
ly upon  the  country's  need  of  aid  from  the 
young  and  valiant  to  bring  the  war  to  a  glo- 
rious termination — gave  a  most  thrilling  des- 
cription of  the  two  great  battles  which  had 
already  been  fought  and  won  by  their  ever- 
conquering  countrymen — in  glowing  lan- 
guage he  dwelt  upon  the  patriotism  and  val- 
or of  their  lamented  sires  and  grandsires  in 
their  two  great  struggles  with  Great  Brit- 
ain ;  and  concluded  by  entreating  the  stal- 
wart and  noble  youths  to  imitate  their  glori- 
ons  example  and  enlist  under  the  victorious 
banner  in  this  great  crisis,  when  the  coun- 
try stood  so  much  in  need  of  their  servi- 


ces!' 


Defeaning  were  the  shouts  and  hurrahs 
which  immediately  succeeded  the  last  words 
®f  the  veteran's  patriotic  harangue.  The 
effort  was  successful — the  victory  complete  ! 

And  now  the  suddenly  elated  Clifton,  fol- 
lowed by  some  fifteen  or  twenty  verdant  but 
stalwart  plough-boys,  was  again  parading  up 


and  down  the  town,  much  to  the  annoyance  of 
all  nervous  old  women,  and  affright  of  geese, 
ducks,  hens,  turkeys,  and  other  barn-yard 
accompaniaments. 

The  '  Evergreen'  on  that  day  presented  an 
unusually  busy  appearance.  The  spark  of 
patriotism  now  kindled  within  a  few  soon 
electrified  nearly  all  the  young  men  within 
a  league's  distance  around  the  village,  and 
they  hurried  in  to  the  recruiting  rendezvous 
to  prove  to  the  world  that  they  were  no  cow- 
ards and  not  recreant  to  their  duty  when  the 
country  calls  '  To  Arms!' 

At  the  setting  of  the  sun  on  that  day  of 
extreme  excitement,  Clifton  had  the  glorious 
satisfaction  of  finding  on  his  enlistment  roll 
forty-six  men — good  and  true — raw  recruits 
indeed — but  just  the  right  sort  of  material 
to  endure  the  hardships  of  a  campaign  and 
to  make  good  soldiers  of — and,  in  truth,  the 
very  class  of  men  who  achieved  our  coun- 
try's independence. 

Before  it  was  yet  dark  our  self-made  re- 
cruiting officer  drew  up  his  men  in  as  straight 
a  line  as  could  be  expected,  and  gave  them 
a  furlough  of  three  days.  At  the  end  of 
which  time,  he  told  them  that  he  should  ex- 
pect every  man  to  answer  to  his  name  at  the 
call  of  the  roll ;  and,  moreover  to  have  all 
their  private  matters  arranged,  preparatory 
to  marching  for  Mexico. 

Elated  with  the  idea  of  being  a  soldier, 
and  filled  with  enthusiasm  and  excitement  at 
the  bold  step  they  had  taken,  they  dispersed 
to  their  several  homes  to  acquaint  their  fa- 
thers, mothers,  brothers,  sisters,  sweethearts 
and  wives,  of  the  glorious  act  that  they  had 
that  day  performed,  and  of  the  sacrifice  they 
were  about  to  make  for  the  good  of  their 
country  ! 

If  ever  a  hubbub  was  suddenly  kicked  up 
in  any  community  it  was  effected  in  this  hith- 
erto peaceful  village  !  It  would  require  the 
pages  of  an  octavo  volume  to  give  in  detail 
the  remonstrances  of  both  stern  and  tender- 
hearted parents  ;  the  gentle  persuasions  of 
loving  sisters  ;  the  bluff  and  grouty  growls 


18 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


of  elder  brothers  ;  the  hair-pulling  of  vixen 
spouses;  and  the  earnest,  the  gentle  and 
tearful  entreaties  of  loving,  amiable  and 
pretty  sweethearts. 

Had  the  whole  village  been  set  on  fire,  the 
effect  of  this  strange  and  sudden  resolution 
of  the  young  men,  could  not  have  had  a 
more  inflammable  effect  upon  that  sect,  who 
are  fortunately  and  perhaps  necessary  ex- 
empt from  fighting  their  countrj's  battles,  or 
performing  even  the  duties  of  a  soldier  in 
times  of  peace. 

However,  remonstrances,  entreaties,  pul- 
ling hair,  or  growling  had  no  effect  ;  and 
even  tears  from  the  soft  blue  eyes  of  the  vil- 
lage belle,  whose  lover  had  enlisted,  were  of 
no  avail.  If  one  was  released,  thought  the 
young  recuiting  officer,  all  might  desire  to 
be. 

The  three  days'  furlough  having  expired, 
one  by  one,  slowly  and  reluctantly,  began  to 
assemble  the  raw  recruits,  with  their  patri- 
otic ardor  half  cooled.  Although  it  was  not 
required,  nearly  all  of  them  bore  upon  their 
shoulders  either  an  old  musket,  a  rifle,  or  a 
fowling-piece.  Those  who  possessed  not 
these  weapons,  had  availed  themseles  of  cut- 
lasses, swords  or  pistols,  which  looked  an- 
tique and  rusty  enough  to  have  served  thro' 
the  revolutionary  campaign.  Thus  they  ap- 
peared armed  and  equipped — for  many  had 
shot  pouches  and  powder  horns — contrary 
to  the  wishes  or  expectations  of  their  re- 
cruiting officer,  who,  by  unanimous  consent 
they  acknowledged  as  captain,  though  he 
had  not  as  yet  received  a  commission. 

After  calling  them  into  line  he  told  them 
that  arms,  equipments,  and  uniform  would 
be  furnished  them  by  government,  and  that 
they  might  leave  all  weapons  and  accoutre- 
ments at  home.  This  announcement  gave 
pretty  general  satisfaction,  but  it  called  forth 
from  the  ranks  one  Ezekiel  Short,  an  over- 
grown youth,  who  stood  six  feet  four  inches 
in  his  stockings,  and  who  held  firmly  in  his 
hand  a  ducking  gun,  the  barrel  of  which 
was  nearly  as  long  as  himself. 


'  Well,  Capen,  I  think  I  mought  as  well 
go  hum,'  said  long  Zeke ;  *  can't  be  of  no 
use,  no  haow.' 

'  Why,  what's  the  matter  ?'  inquired  Clif- 
ton. 

*  That's  a  pooty  question  for  yeou  to  ask. 
Didn't  you  say  jeast  naow,  that  we  must 
leave  our  guns  at  hum  ?  Now,  one  raison 
I  had  in  'listin,  was  to  have  a  chance  some 
day  or  'nuther  to  try  the  quality  o'  my  duck- 
in'  gun  on  some  o'  them  are  thunderin'  black 
whiskered  Mexikins.  You  see,  capen,  I'm 
used  to  this  ere  shootin'  iron  •  I'll  be  fly- 
blown if  there's  another  like  it  between  here 
and  Satan's  kingdom  !  It  is  the  same  iden- 
tical critter  that  my  old  grandsir  fit  and  bled 
with  at  the  Concord  Fight !  That  gun  won 
the  prize  last  squirrel  hunt,  and  I  was  ray- 
ther  calkerlatiri'  on  doing  the  same  sort  o' 
thing  when  we  get  out  huntin'  arter  those 
tarnal  crazy  Mexikins.' 

The  officer  made  no  reply,  but  unwilling 
to  lose  so  fine  a  specimen  of  fighting  timber, 
took  Zeke  aside  and  hinted  to  him  that  all 
should  be  right  in  regard  to  the  ducking 
gun  if  he  would  seemingly  acquiesce. — 
Zeke  took  his  place  in  the  ranks  again  with- 
out his  gun,  which  seemed  to  satisfy  two  or 
three  others  who  had  calculated  upon  enlist- 
ing their  favorite  weapons  as  well  as  their 
bodies  for  the  campaign. 

Clifton  BOW  commenced  drilling  his  raw 
recruits  in  the  school  of  the  soldier,  and  it 
was  with  the  greatest  difficulty  that  he  at 
length  made  them  understand  that  a  soldier's 
duties  embraced  something  more  than  to 
load,  take  aim  and  fire  !  It  was  an  awk- 
ward piece  of  work — that  first  drill — but 
Clifton,  not  again  despairing,  kept  his  men 
in  a  line — rather  a  zig-zag  one  to  be  sure — 
for  upwards  of  three  hours.  And  at  the 
end  of  that  time  every  man  could  tell  his  left 
foot  from  his  right,  and  knew  the  meaning 
of  'eyes  right,'  '  left  dress,'  etc. 

However,  all  things  considering  (military 
enthusiam  being  at  a  very  low  ebb  in  that 
section  of  the  country)  the  raw  recruits 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


19 


gave  pretty  strong  indications  that  they  were 
just  the  right  sort  of  boys  '  to  go  a  Mexican 
hunting'  as  they  termed  it. 

The  only  thing  mortifying  to  our  young 
hero,  on  this  occasion,  was,  to  observe,  after 
he  had  dismissed  his  command  and  faced 
right-about,  that  Major  Granville  and  the 
beautiful,  blue-eyed  Rosalia  had  been  silent 
spectators  of  the  mano3uvres  of  his  corps  in 
his  first  attempt  to  instruct  them.  The  mo- 
ment his  eye  was  caught  they  could  not  re- 
frain from  giving  vent  to  the  gleeful  feelings 
which  the  ludicrous  appearance  and  awk- 
ward actions  of  the  tyro  soldiers  had  excited 
within  them, 

Clifton  looked  abashed  and  his  cheeks 
were  red  with  mortification  ;  but  the  Major 
observing  his  trepidation  and  instantly  di 
vining  the  cause,  stepped  towards  him  and 
extended  his  hand,  saying — 

*  Excellent  1  brave  !  a  noble  beginning  ! 
Do  not  feel  so  down-hearted,  Clarence.  I'll 
pledge  my  honor  as  an  old  soldier,  that  i*o 
company  of  recruits,  raised  in  this  state 
would  prove  a  match  for  them.  There's 
fight  in  every  mother's  son  of  'em  !  I  can 
see  it  in  their  eyes  !' 

'  But  they  make  such  an  outrageously  ri- 
diculous appearance,  that  I  am  almost  tired 
of  the  task  I  have  began,'  remarked  Clifton 

'  Tut,  tut,  persevere,'  pursued  Granville 
*  you'U  soon  mould  them  to  your  will  by  pa 
tient  drilling.' 

'  I'm  sure  they  obeyed  your  orders  with 
considerable  precision,'  chimed  in  Miss  Ro 
salia,  *  considering  that  they  know  as  little  o 
the  military  art  as  old  Parson  Lambton.' 

*  Of  course  we  must  allow  a  Major's  daugh 
ter  to  be  a  proper  judge  of  soldierlike  bear 
ing,'  said  Clarence,  bowing,  and  with  aligh 
touch  of  irony  in  his  mode  of  speech.' 

'  Oh,  sir,'  returned  Rosalia,  '  it  require 
not  to  be  a  Major's  daughter  to  tell  a  soldie 
from  a  civilian  at  a  glance — to  tell  a  haw 
from  a  peacock  is  not  a  whit  easier.' 

*  Ah,  ha,  ha  !  well  done,  Rosa  !  a  gallan 
retort  and  a  close  shot !'  said  Granville  ;  bu 


Clarence,  you  must  n't  mind  my  little  mili- 
ary  prodigy    in    petticoats.     If   she    could 
ave  her  own   way  the  days  of  Amazonian 
eroism  would  be  revived.     1  wouldn't  have 
elieved  that  she  knew  much  more  of  army 
movements  than  my  '  kitchen  colonel,'  if  she 
ad'nt,  the  other  evening,  have  completely 
istanced   my  calculations  in   regard   to  the 
lovernents  of  our  forces  on  the  Rio  Grande. 
She  anticipated  the  truth,  while  I  declared  it 
11  moonshine.' 

'  Indeed,'  replied  Clarence,  facetiously  ; 
perhaps  Miss  Granville  would  like  to  enlist 
n  my  raw  company  ;  I  can  make  her  a  cor- 
oral,  and  her  gallantry  may  be  the  means  of 
icr  promotion.'' 

'  Enlist  in  your  corps?  ha,  ha!'  laughed 
losalia;  'you  esteem  me  lightly,  melhinka. 
Setter  use  your  influence  to  make  me  your 
colonel.' 

'  A  powder-60y,  rather,'  retorted  Clifton, 
good  humoredly. 

1  You  would  find  me  much  less  afraid  of 
ixplosive  material  than  you  are,  I'll  engage.' 

'  After  an  engagement,  ladies  are  very  use- 
ul  in  mending  up  the  little  eyelet  holes, 
made  by  the  sharp-shooters/ 

Ah !  I'll  agree  to  sew  up  all  that  may 
occur  in  your  corps;  you'll  not  hazard  their 
precious  lives,  I'll  warrant,  within  point 
blank  distance  of  a  thirty-two  pounder!' 

'Come,  come — a  truce  to  this  jesting,' 
said  the  Major.  '  Let's  make  a  retreat  for 
home,  Rosy.  Clarence  I  shall  soon  expect 
you  at  the  cottage.' 

'  Remember,  Captain  Clifton,  (she  em- 
phasized the  title,)  '  that  we  take  our  tea 
early.' 

'  Will  you  promise  to  aim  the  '  paper-bul- 
lets' of  your  brain  at  something  else?'  said 
Clifton. 

'  I  can't  promise;  you  are  such  a  capital 
target  I  love  to  shoot  at  you.' 

'  I  think  I  shall  survive  all  the  wounds  you 
may  chance  to  make.  You  may  expect  me 
in  good  season,'  said  Clifton,  as  he  returned 
the  parting  salute  of  his  friends. 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON 


Now  the  reader  might  very  naturally  infer 
from  the  character  of.  the  conversation  we 
have  listened  to  from  Clarence  and  Rosalia, 
lhat  such  a  thing  as  a  mutual  love  did  not 
exiet  in  their  hearts ;  but  such  is  not  the 
true  state  of  the  case — Cupid  sometimes 
plays  such  unaccountable  antics  that  lovers 
cannot  always  put  confidence  in  him.  The 
truth  is,  that  Clifton,  the  more  lie  listened  to 
Rosalia's  lively  sallies,  ironical  though  they 
often  were,  the  more  he  thought  of  her  won- 
drous charms ;  and  to  say  the  truth  she  was 
far  from  being  indifferent  to  him. 

Without  tarrying  longer  in  the  quiet  vil- 
lage, which  we  have  for  a  short  time  much 
disturbed,  we  must  onward  to  the  Battle 
Fields  of  Mexico,  leaving  our  hero  and  his 
raw  recruits  to  get  there  as  best  they  may. 

One  thing,  however,  we  may  as  well  state. 
When  Clifton  arrived  at  New  Orleans  about 
four  weeks  after  the  events  already  narrated, 
he  was  surprised  and  pleased  to  learn  that 


his  company  of  volunteers  were  to  be  mount 
ed  as  soon  as  they  could  reach  the  Rio  del 
Norte,  and  to  form  part  of  a  battalion  of 
Light  Dragoons  which  was  to  be  formed 
from  the  several  volunteer  corps.  He  was 
yet  more  surprised  to  learn  that  his  friend, 
Major  Granville,  had  actually  received  and 
accepted  a  Colonel's  commission,  and  to 
have  the  command  of  the  new  battalion  of 
Light  Dragoons,  and,  moreover,  that  he 
was  daily  expected  at  New  Orleans,  from 
thence  to  proceed  immediately  to  the  seat  of 
war.  When  Clifton's  surprise  had  subsided, 
the  first  query  which  entered  his  mind,  was, 
whether  or  not  Rosalia  Granville  would  ac- 
company her  father  to  Mexico?  He  was 
well  convinced  in  his  own  mind  that  it  would 
not  be  owing  to  any  disinclination  on  her 
part  if  she  had  not  set  out  with  him.  Of 
this  we  shall  satisfy  our  readers  in  a  future 
chapter. 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


21 


CHAPTER    III. 


...i  :•,- 

A  Troop  of  Mexican  Cavalry.  Canales,  the  notable  Rancher o  Chieftain.  Hin 
Lieutenant.  Arrival  at  the  Rancho  of  Senor  Espindola.  A  beautiful  Mexico* 
Senorita,  concerning  whom  there  is  more  mystery  than  will  be  revealed  in  this  chapter. 
A  new  feature  in  Modern  Warfare.  Elvira's  Curiosity. 


O  MEXICO— poor,  unhappy 
Mexico — we  would  convey  the 
reader  at  one  stride,  without 
being  necessitated  to  stop  here 
and  there  for  an  incident  to 
render  the  chain  of  our  story  complete. 

Ten  days  prior  to  the  ever-memorable 
siege  of  MONTEREY,  and  at  the  distance  of 
about  three  leagues  from  the  captured 
city,  a  small  party  of  cavaliers  suddenly 
dashed  across  a  well  travelled  mule  path, 
by  which  the  Sierra  Madre  is  passed,  and 
entered  a  smaller  path  leading  through  a 
forest  of  trees  of  a  larger  growth  than  is 
usually  met  with  in  that  section  of  the  repub- 
lic. As  soon  as  the  wood  completely  con- 
cealed them  from  the  view  of  any  party  who 
might  be  toiling  up  the  mule  path  towards 
the  mountain  pass,  they  slackened  their 
speed,  and  rode  on  slowly  until  they  issued 
into  a  plain  of  some  three  hundred  acres, 
the  locality  of  the  rancho  of  one  Senor  Es- 
pindola, a  worthy  who  will  enact  a  subordi- 
nate part  in  some  of  the  scenes  which  we 
shall  hereafter  describe.  Here  the  cavaliers 
halted,  and  dismounting  their  jaded  beasts, 
each  began  to  perform  the  duties  of  ostler, 
with  the  exception  of  two  rather  conspicu- 
ous individuals,  who  in  fact  were  the  first 
two  officers  of  this  band  of  rather  suspicious  i 
2 


looking  individuals,  and  of  whom  we  shall 
endeavor  to  give  a  brief  description. 

The  chief  was  a   tall,  well-proportioned 
man,  of  about  forty  years  of  age,  with  small, 
piercing  black  eyes ;  his  cheeks,  chin  and 
upper  lip,  were  nearly  covered  with  a  sleek, 
black  beard,    which   appeared    as  if   never 
neglected  at  the  toilet.     His  teeth  were  reg- 
ular and  white,  which  he  displayed  to  ad- 
vantage whenever  he  spoke  or  smiled.     The 
expression  of  his  face,  however,  was  natur- 
ally severe,  and  now  disappointment,  scorn, 
hatred  and  revenge  were   added.     His  cos 
tume  bespoke  him  a  man  of  wealth,  with  no 
ordinary  share  of  vanity  and  pride — hischa 
queta  of  green  velvet  was  richly  bedizzened 
with  cord    and  lace   of  gold  ;    his  vest  em- 
broidered with  gold  and  silver  thread  ;  hia 
trousers,  of  the  same  material  as  his  jacket> 
were  made  full  and  fastened  around  his  an- 
cle, a  la   Turque.     By  his  side  hung  a  naked 
blade,  a  cut-throat  looking  weapon,  bearing 
a  much  closer  resemblance  to  a  bowie-knife 
— though  much  longer — than  to  any  other 
instrument    manufactured    for   men-slaying 
that  we  are  acquainted  with.     A  pair  of  huge 
horse-pistols  were  in  the  holsters  of  his  sad- 
dle, and  in  his  right  hand  he   bore  a  heavy 
lance,  the  indispensable  weapon  of  a  Mexi- 
can mounted  soldier.     His  figure  was  grace- 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


fill  withal,  and  were  it  not  for  the  noted 
paseness  of  his  character,  he  might  have 
bassed  for  a  gentleman  of  distinction.  It 
was  Don  Rodriguez  Canales — holding  the 
commission  of  a  General,  but  acting  as  the 
Chief  of  the  most  notorious  body  of  Ran- 
cheros  in  Mexico. 

His  lieutenant,  or  first  subordinate,  was 
similarly  though  less  gaudily  attired,  but  in- 
stead of  a  naked  blade  at  his  side,  he  wore 
a  less  savage  looking  weapon,  resembling  a 
cuirassier's  sabre,  and  instead  of  a  slouched 
hat  and  plumes,  like  his  chief's,  his  head 
was  covered  by  the  ordinary  broad-brimmed 
Mexican  sombrero,  with  the  addition  of  a 
wide  green  ribbon,  the  ends  of  which  hung 
over  his  left  shoulder  and  fastened  to  a  but- 
ton-hole of  his  chaqueta.  Don  Juliano  Ro- 
sas was  the  name  by  which  he  was  known, 
though  it  was  intimated  that  he  was  an  ad- 
venturer from  a  certain  country  he  was  com- 
pelled to  leave,  to  avoid  that  most  horrible  of 
all  deaths — a  public  strangulation.  Don  Ju- 
liano was  a  villain  of  a  deeper  dye  than 
even  his  master  ;  he  was  not  more  than  thir- 
ty years  of  age,  but  he  was  much  older  in 
crime ;  pretended  to  be  a  Spanish  West  In- 
dian, though  he  had  never  seen  one  of  the 
West  Indian  Isles  j  he  could  speak  Spanish 
with  considerable  fluency,  though  an  old  Gas- 
tilian  might  have  easily  detected  that  there 
was  not  a  drop  of  Spanish  blood  in  his  veins. 
He  had  gained  the  confidence  of  his  chief, 
by  scrupulously  obeying  orders  that  a  man 
of  the  slightest  honor  would  have  revolted 
from.  Yet,  Don  Juliano  could  boast  of  a 
handsome  figure,  and  an  agreeable  counte- 
nance ;  he  could  ever  be  pleasing  among  his 
•companions,  and  even  among  the  fair  seno- 
ritas;  but  little  did  they  know  of  the  devil 
which  reigned  within  him. 

The  remainder  of  the  band,  nearly  a  hun- 
dred and  fifty  in  number,  were  poorly  clad, 
but  well  armed ;  altogether  they  were  as 
shabbaroon  and  cut-throat  a  looking  troop  of 
knaves  as  ever  robbed  a  caravan  or  pillaged 
a  church. 


*  A  bloody  days  work  we've  had  of  it,  Se- 
nor  Capitan,'  remarked  Don  Juliano,    ad- 
dressing Canales. 

*  Si,'   answered  the  notable  chieftain,  of 
whose  acts  the  American  people  have  heard 
so  much,  '  but,'  continued  he,  with  a  hellish 
grin  on  his  features,  'this  day's  defeat  has 
only  served  to  whet  my  anger  ;  and  now  that 
my  blood  is  roused  I  swear  vengeance  upon 

he  head  of  every   d d  Americano  who 

alls  into  the  power  of  Canales  !  I  will  hunt 
them  so  long  as  one  treads  within  our  boun- 
daries !  I  will  neither  show  quarter  or  en- 
gage them  in  honorable  combat !  Hereafter, 
whenever  our  lances  shall  draw  even  one 
drop  of  hlood  from  their  bodies,  death  shall 
be  the  consequence  more  certain  than  if  bit- 
ten by  the  envenomed  tongue  of  the  deadly 
serpent !' 

'  Ah,  Senor  Capjtan,  what  mean  you  ?' 
ejaculated  Juliano,  not  exactly  relishing  a 
part  of  Canales'  speech. 

'  See  that  the  men  are  well  quartered,  and 
then  come  to  my  quarters.  I'll  unfold  to 
thee  my  plan  there.  Rouse  up  old  Espin- 
dola — he  has  not  unbarred  the  door  yet.' 

'  Halloo  !  halloo  !  Senor  Espindola  !  hal- 
loo!' shouted  the  lieutenant,  at  the  same 
time  rapping  lustily  upon  the  door  with  his 
sword. 

The  summons  was  soon  answered  by  the 
appearance  at  the  threshold  of  an  old  man  o 
three  score  years,  who  was  gaping  and  rub- 
bing his  eyes  as  it  just  awakened  from  a 
sound  sleep. 

'  A  pretty  time  for  sleep,  Senor  Espindo- 
la,' resumed  the  lieutenant,  '  it  is  not  much 
past  mid-day.' 

'  Ah,  Don  Juliano/  replied  the  old  man, 
'  I  knew  that  was  thy  wagish  tongue ;  me- 
thinks  when  thou  hast  lived  over  sixty  har- 
vests, thou  wilt  find  a  quiet  siesta  quite  re- 
freshing even  at  this  hour.  I  know  'tis  not, 
and  Heaven  knows  'tis  not.', 

'  Well,  well,  bestir  thyself  old  man,  and 
prepare  a  feast  for  Captain  Canales  and 
myself,  while  our  troop  are  doing  the  same 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON 


23 


thing  for  themselves.  Move  sprightly — w 
have  had  a  severe  day's  work  and  not  a  inor 
sel  of  refreshment  since  sunrise.' 

'  The  best  that  we  have  shall  be   thine 
and  that's  good  enough  for  any  grandee  in 
Mexico.     But  what  meanest  thou  by  a  se 
vere  day's  work,  lieutenant  ?     My  old  eye 
tell  me  that  all  has  not  gone  right  with  thee. 
1  True  ;  we  have  lost  thirty  men  to  day — 
mostly  killed.' 

'  Dios  de  Cielo  /'  exclaimed  the  old  man 
with  a  look  of  pious  horror.  '  Thou  an< 
thy  troop  must  have  been  battling  the  barba 
rians !' 

'  Yes  ;  only  they  battled  us  with  a  ven 
geance  !     I   believe  we  have    encounterec 
this  day  the  accursed  Texan  Rangers,  unde 
that  dare-devil,  McCullough  ;  but  don't  ask 
me  any  questions.     Tell  me,  where  is  Don 
na  Elvira  ?     She  is  not  napping,  too,  is  she  ? 
'  Ah  !  bless  her  bright  eyes  !  they  are  nev 
er  closed   while  the  sun   shines   above  the 
horizon.' 

'  Why,  then,  is  she  not  here?' 
*  She  teased  me  to  let  her  goto  the  village 
and  spend  the  day  with  the  daughter  of  Se- 
nor  Martini,  who  is  celebrating  her  birth-day 
by  having  a  juvenile  fandango.  All  theladf 
and  lasses  of  her  acquaintance  were  invited. 
So  I  could  not  refuse  my  darling  Elvira  — 
She  will  return,  I'll  warrant  me,  when  the 
sun  gets  below  the  mountain  top.' 

'  Senor  Espindola  ;'  said  Juliano,  '  I  have 
a  word  for  thee,  privately,  concerning  Elvi- 
ra, when  a  good  opportunity  occurs.1 

'  I  cannot  object  to  that,  good  leftenant ; 
but  mark  me  well,  Donna  Elvira  is  not  for 
thee ;  therefore,  importune  me  no  more  on 
that  point.  I  have  told  thee  often,  that 
when  thou  couldst  gain  her  consent,  mine 
should  follow  ;  but  I  know  she  loves  thee 

ROt.' 

'  Perchance  her  mind  will  change,  and 
she  will  yet  give  heed  to  my  protestations  of 
love.' 

'  Ah,  Don  Juliano,  believe  it  not — I  have 
3ived  long  in  the  world — I  have  studied  well 


the  hearts  of  women — there's  danger  in  at- 
tempting to  change  or  coerce  them  when 
once  fixed.  But,  I'm  losing  time — tortillas 
must  be  cooked,  or  I  cannot  serve  thee  as 
gallant  cavaliers  should  be  served.' 

Having  made  this  reply  Espindola  entered 
the  house ;  and  at  the  time  predicted,  the 
sparkling  black-eyed,  black-haired  Senorita 
Elvira  Espindola,  came  tripping  with  sylph- 
like  grace  into  the  apartment  where  her  fa- 
ther— who  seemed  more  worthy  to  be  called 
her  grandfather — was  preparing  a  repast  for 
the  Ranchero  Chief  and  his  lieutenant.' 

'  Ah,  Elvira ;  I  am  glad  thou  hast  come 
so  promptly,  for  my  guests  have  returned, 
and  we  have  a  repast  to  serve  them.' 

'  Oh,  father,'  said  the  vivacious  Elvira  ;  '  I 
have  had  right  merry  sport  to  day  ;  we  have 
had  such  a  gay  fandango ;  and  I  have  seen 
the  great  general,  Ampudia,  and  his  grand 
army  of  soldiers,  who,  they  say,  are  going  to 
kill  or  drive  all  the  'Yonkese'  out  of  Mexico 
They  are  now  marching  toward  Monterey, 
where  they  mean  to  give  them  such  a  whip- 
ping, if  they  dare  show  their  heads.' 

'  Nonsense,  child — Ampudia  is  a  coward  ! 
If  he's  to  command  the  troops  another  de- 
feat is  certain.  Pity  it  is  the  heroic  Cana- 
les,  who  is  our  guest,  is  not  at  their  head.' 

'  I  don't  like  Canales'  looks,  father.' 

'  Why  not,  my  child  ?' 

'  Because  he  seems  too  much  like  a  rob- 
ber." 

What  think'st  thou  of  Don  Juliano  Ro- 
sas?' 

'  I  like  him  no  better,  father.' 

'  Prithee,  why  ?' 

'  He  teases  me  too  much — talks  love  and 
uch  silly  nonsense  to  me — you  know  I  can't 
>ear  it.  Then,  too,  I  believe  he's  not  what 
ic  professes  to  be — I  fear  he's  a  hypocrite, 
herefore,  I  like  him  not.5 

*  By  San  Maria,  good  reasons  and  strong 
Then,  Elvira,  beware  of  him — he  will  not 
ubmit  to  thy  scorn  tamely.  I  regard  him 
omewhat  suspiciously,  too ;  he  hath  an  oily 
ongue,  and  may  do  thee  harm.' 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


'  I  fear  him  not ;  neither  do  I  fear  Roder- 

iguez — ' 

'  Hush,  my  child,'  interrupted  the  old  man, 
as  Canales  with  a  lofty  stride  intruded  him- 
self into  their  presence. 

Elvira  immediately  left  the  room. 

'  Senor  Espindola,'  said  the  chieftain  ; — 
'  I  have  something  to  say  to  thee  in  private 
After  dark  come  to  my  apartment,  and  see 
that  there  be  no  listeners.' 

*  Santa  Maria  /'  exclaimed  the  old  man  ; 
*  thou,  too,  canst  not  want  my  daugh- 
ter 1  Wert  thou  the  most  magnificent  gran- 
dee in  the  Republic,  I  could  not  permit  it — 
the  Holy  Church  would  not  sanction  it ;  for 
if  1  have  heard  aright,  thou  hast  one  wife  to 
love  and  cherish  already — -never'll  do — can' 

listen  to  it ' 

'  Old  man,  what  canst   thou  be  prating 
about?' 

'  Of   my   daughter — she   never  shall    be 
wedded  unless  with  the  sanction  of  the  Ho 

ly  Church — as  I  said  before ' 

*  Nonsense — I  have  too  weighty  matter 


ight  to  be  an  auditor ;  and  what  young  la- 
y  would  not  have  reasoned  as  she  did,  and 
cted  as  she  had  acted,  under  like  circum- 
tances?  She  did  not  alludeto  what  she  had 
icard  to  her  father.  Oh,  no ;  she  had  too 
much  good  sense  for  that ;  besides,  her  cu- 
riosity was  aroused,  and  there  was  to  be  a 
very  private  interview  between  her  father 
and  the  chief  upon  a  very  important  matter. 
She  resolved,  whatever  it  might  be,  that  it 
should  be  no  secret  to  her  ! 

The  feast  prepared  for  the  Ranchero  lead- 
ers having  been  despatched,  these  worthies 
retired  to  the  suite  of  apartments  occupied 
by  the  former.  Their  conversation  thus  far 
had  been  upon  the  losses  they  had  sustained 
in  their  last  engagement  with  the  Ameri- 
cans. 

'  How  bear  our  men  this  defeat,  Juliano  ?' 
asked  Canales,  pursuing  the  subject. 

*  With  loud  curses  and  dread  oaths  of  ven- 
geance !'  answered  the  lieutenant.  '  Had 
they  encountered  a  legion  of  devils,  com- 
manded by  the  arch  fiend  himself,  instead  of 


in  hand  to  think  of  silly  maidens.' 

'Oh,  ho!  then  it  isn't  of  my   daughte 
thou  would'st  speak  ?  I  ought  to  have  known 
Better — to  be  sure  I  had — well,  I  am  an 

*FOOL!'  thundered  the  chief,  almost  en- 
raged. 

'  True,  Senor ;  I  was  on  the  point  of  im- 
parting to.  thee  that  information  when  thou 
didst  interrupt  me.' 

'  Thou  knowest  my  wish  ?' 
'  Si,  Senor  ;  I  am  thy  humble  servant,  and 
wilt  obey.' 

The  chieftain  retired  to  his  own  quarters, 
whither  we   shall  soon  follow  him.     Donna 
Elvira  again  rejoined    her   father.     In  fact 
she  had  not  hied  so  far  away,  but  that  every 
word  which  Canales  had  uttered  had  fallen 
upon  her.     She  was  not  a  premeditated'list- 
ener  to  this  conversation,  but  accidentally 
hearing  her  own  name  mentioned,  she  very 
reasonably  concluded  that  she  had  an  inter- 
est in  the  conversation,  and  of  course  had  a 


this  squadron  of  wild  Texans,  they  could  not 
have  been  more  amazed  or  more  terribly 
routed !' 

'  True ;  I'd  rather  have  fought  a  treble 
number  of  Apache  savages  than  these  im- 
petuous '  northern  barbarians' ;  but,  Juliano, 
we  must  change  our  mode  of  fighting  them, 
or  in  every  conflict  defeat  is  certain.     We 
must  regard  them  henceforth   as  only  sava- 
ges, and  fight  them   accordingly.     I  hinted 
o  thee  a  plan  which  I  have  been  cogitating 
upon,  which  will  render  our  force  invincible 
engaged  with  even  a  much  superior  power, 
in  point  of  numbers.     Thou  art  aware,  Ju» 
iano,  that  in  action  we  inflict  many  wounds 
but  seldom  kill  ?' 

1 1  have  remarked  it.' 
'  Hereafter,  we  may  possess  ourselves  of 
the  power  to  render  every  wound,  ay,  every 
scratch,  as  mortal,  as  if  the  weapon's  point 
drew  blood  from  the  heart.' 

'  Go  on,  Senor  ;  whilst  thy  words  surprise- 
me  they  give  me  new  hope/ 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON 


'  There  is  a  simple  shrub,  to  be  tound  in 
the  chapparals,  from  the  root  of  which  can 
be  distilled  a  deadly  liquid  !' 

'Poison,  Senor?' 

*  Si,  poison  !  or,  call  it  what  thou  wilt,  so 
potent  is  it  that  were  I  to  dip  this  dagger's 
keen  point  into  the  liquid,  and   with  it  but 
scratch  the  flesh  of  any  part  of  my  body,  so 
that  it  but  tear  the  skin,  in  two  hours  after- 
ward I  should  be  a  corpse  !' 

« Incredible !' 

'  I  will  yet  give  thee  proof.' 

'  I  w411  not  doubt  thee ;  but  it  is  wonder- 
ful.' 

'  Suppose,  Juliano,  we  were  to  procure 
this  subtle  poison,  and  with  it  envenom  eve- 
ery  lance  of  our  troop  V  said  the  chieftain, 
enquiringly. 

'  Such  a  course  might  meet  with  the  dis- 
approval of  our  great  general,  Don  Lopez  de 
Santa  Anna.' 

'  I'm  not  quite  so  sure  of  that,  Juliano. 
Santa  Anna  is  not  unlike  ourselves  ;  he's  a 
public  robber,  and  we  do  a  little  private  bu- 
siness in  the  same  way.  At  all  events  we 
can  try  the  experiment,  and  keep  the  secret 
to  ourselves.' 

'  By  all  means,  Senor ;  but  how  cati  this 
venomous  liquid  be  obtained  ?' 

1  We  must  let  our  host,  old  Espindola,  in- 
to the  secret.' 

*  I  fear  we  might  fail  there  ;  the  old  man 
is  too  conscientious.' 

'  A  fig  for  his  conscience  !'  said  Canales 
snapping  his  finger.  '  I  have  that  which  will 
make  it  bend  to  anything.  The  old  man 
loves  gold,  and  let  me  but  jingle  a  purse  of 
it  in  his  ear,  and  he  will  obey  my  bidding  as 
readily  as  if  I  were  the  archbishop  of  Mexi- 
co. He  has  promised  to  meet  me  here  with- 
in this  hour,  and  through  him  I  can  easily 
obtain  the  poison.' 

'  He  may  himself  be  ignorant  of  it.  I  am 
not  aware  of  ever  having  heard  even  men- 
tioned this  venemous  root.' 

*  Neither  did   I  know  of  it,  until    old   Es 
pindola,  in  telling  me  one  of  his  marvellous 


ales  about  the  Spanish  conquest,  wherein 
ic  spoke  of  a  deadly  poison  known  to  the 
Aztecs.  Ultimalely  I  questioned  him  close- 
y  in  regard  to  it,  but  he  seemed  somewhat 
averse  at  first  to  satisfying  my  curiosity  ; 
inally,  he  confessed  that  he  knew  where  to 
obtain  the  root  from  which  the  poison  is  dis- 
illed  ;  had  seen  its  potency  tested  ;  and  had 
icard  the  use  to  which  the  Aztec  warriors 
applied  it,  which  was  in  envenoming  the 
)arbs  of  their  arrows,  points  of  spears,  knives, 
and  other  sharp  pointed  weapons.  He, 
moreover  told  me  that  he  knew  of  but  one 
ndividual  in  the  Republic,  besides  himself, 
who  understood  the  process  of  distilling  it 
from  the  root.' 

*  Is  it  not  possible.'  enquired  Juliano,  '  to 
obtain  it  without  giving  Espindola  the  least 
intimation  as  to  the  purpose  to  which  we 
propose  to  apply  it.' 

'  It  is  possible  ;  but  the  old  fox  is  pretty 
shrewd,  and  we  must  beware  that  through 
his  eagle  aye  he  does  not  read  our  inten- 
tions. Ah,  I  hear  the  old  man's  footsteps. 
He  is  true  to  his  promise.' 

'  Then  I  will  beat  a  retreat ;  and  whilst 
he  is  detained  here,  I'll  improve  the  oppor- 
tunity by  making  love  to  the  angelic  Seno- 
rita,  who  calls  him  father.' 

No  sooner  had  Juliano  retreated  through 
one  door  than  the  Senor  Espindola  entered 
the  other. 

'  Thy  punctuality  is  to  be  commended,1 
said  Canales.  '  Be  seated,  and  without  any 
preface  I  will  at  once  inform  thee  of 
the  nature  of  the  errand  for  which  I  sum- 
moned thee  hither.  What  is  the  name  of 
the  poisonous  root  to  be  found  in  our  chap- 
parals, Espindola  ?' 

'  The  poisonous  root  ?'  repeated  the  old 
man,  as  if  in  deep  thought.  'Didst  thou  say 
poisonous?' 

'  Si,  Senor ;  thou  'rt  dull  of  comprehen- 
sion, methinks.  I  mean  that  of  which  thou 
told'st  me.' 

*  When  ?'  continued  Espindola,  with  feign- 
ed wonder. 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON 


'  A  short  time  since,  while  narrating  one 
of  thy  wild  and  most  improbable  romances 
— come,  come,  you  remember — it  was  dur- 
ing my  last  tarry  here.' 

'  Ah,  ah — true/  said  the  old  man,  as  if 
the  matter  had  that  instant  popped  into  his 
brain.  '  You  see,  Senor,  as  old  age  creeps 
on,  the  memory  waxeth  dull.' 

'  Ridiculous  nonsense  !'  uttered  Canales, 
with  impatience.  '  Tell  me  at  once  of  this 
poisonous  root !'  he  demanded. 

'  I  know  of  no  other  name  for  it  than  that 
of  yerbas  venenoso.' 

'  I  think  thou  didst  tell  me  it  was  not  gen- 
erally known.' 

'True,  Senor.' 

*  Can  it  be  obtained  readily  1     I  have  im- 
mediate use  for  a  large  quantity  of  il.' 

'  Dios  de  Cielo !  I  trust  my  honored  guest 
intends  it  not  for  himself?' 

*  Never  fear  for  me,  Espindola.' 
'  But—' 

'  Ask  me  no  questions — the  poison  I  must 
and  will  have.  Wilt  thou  obtain  it  for  me  ?' 

'  Consider,  Senor.' 

f  Make  no  objections — obey  my  bidding, 
and  here  is  gold  for  thee  !'  Canales  placed 
in  his  hands  a  purse  of  Spanish  coin. 

'  For  my  Elvira's  sake  I  will  accept  the 


treasure  and  obey  thy  will;  but  I  trust ' 

'  Trust  to  naught  else  save  thy  prayers  ;' 
interrupted  the  chief,  '  and  execute  thy 
commission  forthwith.' 

'  Thy  will  is  law.  Early,  to-morrow,  I 
will  bring  thee  the  poisonous  liquid,'  and  the 
old  man  left  the  apartment. 

As  we  have  previously  intimated,  a  certain 
third  person  resolved  to  know  the  why  and 
wherefore  of  this  premeditated  meeting. 
During  the  entire  conversation  she  had  so 
concealed  herself  as  to  be  within  hearing 
distance.  The  whole  plot  was  now  no  secret 
to  her.  She  knew  much  that  had  not  been  re- 
vealed to  her  father,  but  had  been  imparted 
to  her  hateful  lover.  But  the  discovery  she 
had  made  was  other  than  agreeable  to  her 
feelings  :  the  true  character  of  the  band  who 
had  madeEspindola's  ranch  their  headquar- 
ters, was  now  fully  understood.  She  trem- 
bled in  every  limb  and  muscle  to  think  of 
the  horrible  sacrifice  of  life  contemplated 
by  Canales.  But  there  was  one  bright  thought 
which  finally  gleamed  upon  her  mind.  She 
recollected  of  having  heard,  as  well  as  the 
Ranehero  Chieftain,  her  father  speak  of  this 
subtle  poison  ;  but  she  had  heard  much  more 
— a  full  description  of  a  safe  and  certain* 
antidote ! 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


1*1  B  nO  ,  -sbr*  HOES  if 
rf*  Ibt  fcniiktewxpoq  1 
bng  f)n<vft-9B  ,^Didw  ,1 


nf  h<*ijifltif*9li 


rloirfw 

r  ni  /A',:H  fbl  stij  no  ,*9 

iir.fl-xis  £  BB 
7;   OTobio  iahife  oJ 


! 


CHAPTER     IV, 


A  deep  Barranca^  and  a  Remarkable  Glen.  First  Appearance  of  our  Hero's  corps  of 
Light  Dragoons.  The  party  of  Reconnoisance.  Lt.  Ezekiel  Short — or  Long 
Short.  Awkward  predicament  of  Zeke  and  his  party.  The  Flag  of  Truce. — 
Zeke  a  prisoner. 


BRIGHT  sun — a  clear  atmos- 
phere, and  an  unclouded  sky, 
made  beautiful  the  14th  of 
September,  1846,  a  few  days 
only  previous  to  the  storming 
of  Monterey.  At  a  distance  of  not  more 
than  two  leagues  from  the  city,  on  the  road 
leading  to  Guadalupe,  there  is  a  narrow  bar- 
ranca, through  tthich  the  road  passes.  Be- 
fore it  terminates  on  the  higher  ground, 
there  is  a  still  narrower  pass,  or  glen  it  may 
be  more  properly  termed,  walled  on  either 
side,  almost  perpendicularly,  by  jagged  rocks. 
So  high  are  these  natural  walls,  together 
with  the  shrubbery  which  shoots  out  on  both 
sides  along  up  the  craggy  steeps,  interlacing 
its  branches  and  leaves  together,  that  the 
sun's  rays,  even  at  meridian,  never  penetrate 
this  remarkable  gorge,  which  has  to  be  pas- 
sed by  all  who  journey  upon  that  road.  So 
narrow  is  it  at  this  point,  that  but  one  load- 
ed mule  or  mounted  cavalier  can  go  through 
at  a  time.  Running  parallel  with  the  path 
is  a  gurgling  brook,  whose  waters  bubble 
forth  from  a  fissure  in  the  rock  half  way  up 
the  steep,  and  come  tumbling  down  over  a 
succession  of  jutting  crags  until  they  reach 
their  bed,  forming  as  pretty  a  cascade  as  the 
lover  of  nature's  wonders  could  desire.  A 


little  basin  has  been  formed  where  the  wa- 
ter falls,  where  man  and  beast  can  slake  their 
thirst  after  crossing  the  arid  plan  stretching 
out  to  the  ncrth  and  east. 

On  the  mcrning  of  which  we  have  spok- 
en, just  as  the  sun  had  tinged  with  her  rays 
the  peaks  of  the  Sierra  Madre,  a  company 
of  United  States  Light  Dragoons,  mounted 
on  fleet  and  well  caparisoned  steeds,  enter- 
ed the  narrow  ravine,  of  which  we  have  giv- 
en a  brief  description.  Their  uniform  was 
of  light  blue,  with  scarlet  trimmings  ;  cloth 
caps,  al&o  blue,  but  darker,  with  an  eagle  of 
gilt  in  front,  surmounting  gilt  letters,  desig- 
nating the  arm  of  service  to  which  they 
belonged.  They  numbered  about  eighty 
strong,  and  to  a  practised  military  eye  they 
would  have  been  accounted  a  formidable 
body  of  men.  Their  arms  consisted  of  the 
usual  cavalry  sword  ;  a  short  rifle,  slung  up- 
on their  backs ;  and  in  the  holsters  of  their 
saddles  a  pair  of  ordinary  horse  pistols.  Ap- 
parently these  were  their  only  means  of  de- 
fence, and  seemed  quite  sufficient  to  cope 
with  the  pistols,  small  escopetas  and  lances, 
u'ually  carried  by  Mexican  lancers:  but  this 
corps  of  Dragoons,  had  yet  another  weapon, 
small  and  even  insignificant  looking,  but 
nevertheless  in  close  conflict  with  an  enemy 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


far  more  effective  and  destructive  than  a 
others  which  they  bore.  Beneath  each  jack 
et,  on  the  left  side,  in  a  pocket  purposel 
made,  was  a  six-barrelled  revolver,  which,  ac 
cording  to  strict  orders,  was  never  to  be  dis 
played,  except  when  closely  engaged,  an 
when  defeat  seemed  inevitable. 

The   commander  of  this  strongly  arme 
and  well  accoutred  troop,  was  a  tall,  grace 
ful  man,  whose  fair   countenance   indicate 
that  scarcely  twenty-four  years  had  passe 
over  his  head.     To  save  description,  we  ma 
as  well   again  introduce  the  reader  to  ou 
friend,  Clarence    Clifton,  and    to  his    boli 
looking  company  of  cavaliers,  which,  will 
the  exception  of  some  twenty  he  had  enlist 
ed  at  New  Orleans,  were  the  identical  plow 
boys,  who  had  stared  at  him,  and  wonderec 
'  what  it  mought  be   all  abaout/   when  he 
first  disturbed  the  peace  of  their  village  with 
the  recruiting  fife  and  drum.     He  rode  a  no- 
ble looking  horse  with  singular   grace  anc 
ease,  and,  although  the  animal   occasionally 
pawed  the  earth,  and  pranced  about,  yet  the 
cavalier  sat  as  easily  in  his  saddle,  with  loos- 
ened rein,  as  if  horse   and  rider  had  never 
parted   company.     By  the  side  of  Captain 
Clifton,   rode  a    still    younger    man  —  one 
who  had  scarcely  passed  from  youth  to  man- 
hood— of  light  frame,  and  a   countenance, 
were  it  not  sunbrowned  by  recent  exposure, 
would  have  been  called  effeminate  ;  indeed, 
he  looked  far  better  fitted  to  grace  a  ball- 
room than  face  the  cannon's  mouth  on  the 
field   of   battle.      Henry   Allston — for  this 
was  the  youthful  officer's  name — was  a  re- 
cent graduate  of  the  U.  S.  Military  Academy, 
and  held  a  commission  of  second  lieutenant, 
though  he  acted  as  first  in  Clifton's  corps. 
The  third  commissioned    officer  was  none 
other  than  Ezekiel   Short — Long  Zeke,  or 
Long  Short,  as  he  was  commonly  called — he, 
of  the  long   *  duckin'-gun/   which  weapon 
he  was  finally  persuaded  to  leave  behind,  on 
being  promoted  to  his  present  dignity.     His 
great  length  made  him  appear  rather  awk- 
wardly when  mounted,  but  he  made  a  good 


officer,  and  had  a  good  deal  of  fight  in  him. 

On  first  entering  the  ravine,  young  Allston 
had  left  the  rear  of  the  troop,  come  to  the 
front,  and  was  now  in  conversation  with  his 
captain. 

'  We  must  be  near  the  Spring  of  the  Glen/ 
as  designated  in  Arista's  map,'  said  Clifton, 
in  reply  to  a  question  of  his  comrade.  Its 
approach  is  said  to  be  through  the  worst  ra- 
vine on  our  route.  If  there  be  any  worse 
than  this  may  Heaven  protect  us  and  our 
beasts/ 

'  I  would  suggest,  captain/  said  the  youth, 
that  we  make  a  halt,  for  the  train  is  yet  lag- 
ging some  distance  in  our  rear  ;  and  if  my 
presentiments  are  any  indication,  we  shall 
meet  with  resistance  before  we  get  out  of 
this  wretched  apology  for  a  road.' 

'  It  is  possible/  answered  Clifton  •  '  but  if 
you  look  yonder  you  will  perceive  that  we 
are  near  the  gorge ;  surely  Nature  never 
formed  a  pass  so  well  adapted  for  defence  as 
that;  but  I  yet  discover  naught  to  excite  my 
fears.' 

Their  conversation  was  here  interrupted 
)y  one  of  the  troop,  who  rode  hastily  up, 
and  addressed  the  captain  in  a  dialect  which 
Anglo-Saxon  ears  can  never  fail  of  recogni- 
sing. 

'  Och  !  by  the  powers,  captin',  beggin  yer 
>ardon,  the  Mexikins  will  soon  be  upon  us, 
ihure  now.' 

*  What  mean  you,  Rory  ?'  questioned  Clif- 
on. 

'  I  mane  what  I've  jest  tould  ye.' 

*  You  look  a  little  frightened,  Rory.' 
'  Not  a  bit  of  it.' 

'  Well,  what's  the  matter?' 
1  Matther  ?  oh,  be  Jabers,  matther  enough, 
aptin'.     I've  made  a  beautiful  diskivery  !' 

*  Well,  what  does  it  amount  to — explain.' 

'  Och,  be  Jabers,  look  at  this!'  said  Rory 
VlcShee,  producing  a  silver-mounted  pocket 
istol  of  curious  make,  and  presenting  it  to 
is  commander.  '  Now,  had  it  only  been  a 
orse-shoe/  continued  Rory,  '  av  course 
ood  loock  would  ha'  been  with  all  ov  us ; 


The   Light  Dragoon  seizing  a  Mexican  Charger  on  the  Field  of  Bucna  Vista. 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


31 


but  whither  loock  or  misforlin'  is  in  the  find- 
in'  ov  a  pistol,  av  course  yer  'onor  knows 
better  than  RoryMcShee.  Be  mighty  care- 
ful now,  captin,  how  ye  handle  the  pistil — 
it  might  go  off,  for  by  by  my  sowl  it's  load- 
ed/ 

*  Sure  enough,'  remarked  Clifton  to  his 
lieutenant,  as  he  drew  the  charge  ;  the  pow- 
der and  wadding  I  should  judge  from  ap- 
pearances have  not  been  over  twelve  hours 
in  the  barrel.  It's  a  handsome  weapon,  at 
all  events.  Ah  !'  continued  he,  surprised, 
as  his  eye  rested  upon  a  silver  cross,  inlaid 
in  the  stock ;  '  here's  engraved  the  owner's 
name — ROMANO  FALCON,  by  all  that's  fortu- 
nate !  We  shall  soon  have  work  to  do — for 
this  guerilla  chieftain  can't  be  far  off!  Halt 
the  column,  lieutenant — we  must  send  out  a 
party  of  reconnaisance  before  we  venture 
to  pass  yon  rocky  defile.' 

A  halt  was  ordered,  and  a  detachment  se- 
lected to  reconnoitre  beyond  the  glen. — 
2d  Lieutenant  Short-«-or  Long  Zeke vol- 
unteered to  lead  the  party  on  this  somewhat 
hazardous  duly  ;  and  twelve  men,  including 
Irish  Rory,  were  soon  prepared  to  follow 
him.  This  party  proceeded  on  through  the 
ravine,  and  with  due  caution  entered  the 
rocky  gorge,  refreshed  themselves  and  hor- 
ses from  the  pellucid  waters  of  the  spring, 
and  soon  entered  the  wide  plain  beyond, 
each  cavalier,  as  they  slowly  wended  their 
wap,  keeping  an  eye  of  suspicion  upon  eve- 
ry rock,  tree,  or  bank  that  could  conceal  an 
enemy  within  a  rifle  shot  distance.  They 
discovered  nothing — all  seemed  clear  and 
safe  for  the  troop  and  train  to  pass,  and  af- 
ter continuing  on  as  far  as  the  leader  deem- 
ed necessary,  he  ordered  them  to  'right 
about,'  intending  to  return  and  report.  But 
the  horses  heads  were  no  sooner  turned, 
when  a  large  body  of  Mexican  cavaliers, 
mounted  on  fleet  horses,  came  rushing  at  full 
speed  across  the  plain,  and  deliberately 
halted  and  formed  a  line  directly  in  the  road, 
thus  completely  cutting  off  the  party  of  re- 
coonoisance  from  rejoining  their  main  body 


Long  Zeke  was  thunderstruck  and  dismayed 
at  the  sudden  appearance  of  this  formidable 
force.  This  was  the  first  dilemma  in  which 
he  had  ever  been  caught,  where  he  was  at  a 
complete  loss  how  to  extricate  himself.  He 
scarcely  knew  whether  it  were  better  to  or- 
der a  flight,  or  make  a  desperate  effort  to  cut 
through  their  ranks ;  to  attempt  the  latter, 
after  a  second  look  at  the  overwhelming  num- 
ber he  would  have  to  encounter,  he  knew 
would  be  thought  by  his  superiors  to  be  the 
acme  of  madness.  To  run,  and  have  a  le- 
gion of  semi-barbarians  at  his  heels  he  de- 
clared finally  he  could  not.  His  party,  in- 
cluding himself,  consisted  of  just  thirteen — 
the  enemy  were  five  times  that  number,  well 
armed  and  mounted  on  California  steeds. 
At  length  Zeke  thought,  to  cut  through 
them  was  a  feat  worth  trying  for — he  would 
like,  if  possible,  to  emulate  Captain  Thorn- 
ton's daring  act  in  dashing  through  a  supe- 
rior force  on  the  Rio  Grande  ;  but  on  a  so- 
ber second  thought  he  abandoned  this  plan, 
for  he  remembered  that  the  gallant  Thorn- 
ton was  called  before  a  Court  of  Enquiry 
and  reprimanded  for  his  unexampled  temeri- 
ty. Before,  however,  he  could  decide  what 
course  to  pursue,  the  enemy  displayed  a  flag 
of  truce,  and  an  officer  bore  it  toward  the 
little  band  of  Yankees,  who  awaited  but  the 
word  to  dash  in  among  their  foes. 

'  Och  !  thunder  and  thurf!'  exclaimed 
Rory,  upon  seeing  the  peaceful  emblem. — 
*  The  green  divils  take  us  for  a  small  army, 
shure  ;  I'm  thinkin'  now  they'll  trate  on  any 
tarms.  Och!  ye  dirthy  blackguard  cut- 
throat cowards,  ye  arn't  fit  now  to  wait  upon 
the  bog-throtters  of  my  own  swate  Ireland, 
ye  arn't.' 

Long  Zeke,  unattended,  rode  forward  to 
meet  the  white  flag  bearer.  They  exchanged 
salutes  as  they  approached,  and  on  halting, 
the  Mexican  demanded  the  unconditional 
surrender  of  the  party  without  a  minute's  de- 
lay. The  Mexi«an  addressed  Zeke  in  toler- 
able English,  so  that  the  latter  had  no  great 
difficulty  in  understanding  him. 


THE  LIGHT 


DRAGOON. 


'  In  the  country  where  I  came    from,   it 
ginerally  takes  two  to  make  a  bargin,'  said 
the  Yankee  lieutenant.     '  If  you've  got  no 
better  offer  to  make,  I'll  be  putting  mysel 
back  again.' 

'He!'  (behold!)  said  the  Mexican  cava- 
lier, pointing  toward  the  formidable  looking 
squadron.' 

*  I  see,'  replied  Zeke,  '  there's  a  tolerable 
heap  on  ye ;  '  but  its  'ginst  the  principles  of 
the  universal  Yankee  nation  to  surrender  un- 
conditionally ;  couldn't  dew  it  no  how.' 

*  Rash    man,'   said  the  Mexican  ;  '  don't 
you  see  that  thy  life  and  the  lives  of  every 
one  of  thy  followers  is  as  certain  as  that 
Romano  Falcon  is  leader  of  our  band.' 

*  Wall,  mebbe  your  right,  if  that  cutthroat 
scoundrel    is  your    captin'.     Now  where   I 
come  from  we  think  he's  just  about  on  a  par 
with  Captain  Kidd,  and  he  was  hung  for  pi- 
racy !     So  you'd  better  go  back  and  tell  your 
captin'  that  if  he  wants  to  send   to  't  other 
world  about   forty  of  his    company    in  ex- 
change for  us  thirteen,  you  can  tell  him  to 
come  on  !     Coz  'cording  to  our  calculations 
one  Yankee  soldier  is  equal  to  three  Mexi- 
cans any  day.' 

1  Ah,  by  San  Diego  !  thou  dost  wrong  Ro- 
mano Falcon  !' 

'No,'  persisted  Zeke;  'he's  a  robber, 
and  his  own  countrymen  make  no  bones  of 
telling  on't.' 

'  Then  they  do  belie  him  ;  and  your  coun- 
trymen may  yet  find  to  your  sorrow,  that  the 
principal  officers  of  the  Mexican  regular  ar- 
mies are  far  more  treacherous — Santa  Anna, 
Ampudia,  Torrejon,  and  other  great  Gener- 
als that  I  could  name  included — than  any 
robber  chief  who  ever  infested  Mexico. — 
They  are  the  men  who  have  ruined  our  coun- 
try, and  not  the  banditti ;  and  a  truer  band 
of  men  to  fight  the  battles  of  Mexico  does 
not  exist  than  those  commanded  by  Romano 
Falcon,  whom  thou  dost  look  upon  with  such 
abhorrence.' 

'  Then  why  doesn't  he  join  Mexico's  great 


armies,  instead  of  prowling  about  here  like 
so  many  wild  Indians.' 

'  The  regular  armies  are  infinitely  more 
barbarous,  in  their  mode  of  warfare,  than 
ours.' 

'  Then   Mexico  is  to  be  pitied,'  repliec 
Zeke,  '  and  I  conclude  that  the  United  State 
will  do  her  a  favor,  to  give  her  a  Govern 
ment  of  the   real  genuine  Yankee  stamp 
and  build  school-'uses,  canals,  railroads,  lo- 
comotives and  magnetic  telegraphs.  Them's 
my  sentiments,  Mister  Mexican.' 

'  I  cannot  tarry  to  listen  to  thy  speeches 
What  is  thy  answer  to  the  demand  of  Ro 
mano  Falcon.' 

'  You  have  it  already  !' 

'  And  dar'st  thou  return  such  a  message 
to  Romano  Falcon?' 

*  Could'nt  send  no  other,  if  Romano  Fal- 
con were  the  devil,  and  you,  Mister  What's- 
yer-name,  were  Romano  Falcon !'  answered 
Zeke  with  emphasis.' 

'  Bold  man,  I  admire  thy  bluntness  as  wel 
as  thy  termerity,  and  would  treat  with  thee 
perhaps,  on  more  favorable  terms  than  an 
unconditional  surrender !' 

'  Can't  expect  any  thing  better  from  your 
captin'.' 

'  I  have  authority  to  make  such  terms  as  I 


please.' 


'  Wall,  then,  let's  hear  your  best  offer. — 
You  must  be  reasonable,  or  we  can't  trade, 
no  how.' 

'  In  consideration  I  have  taken  quite  a  li- 
king to  thee,  thou  and  thy  band  shall  become 
our  prisoners,  and  shall  be  treated  as  prison- 
ers of  war ;  and  whenever  an  opportunity 
offers,  by  exchange  or  ransom,  thou  shall  be 
free :  and  when  we  reach  our  mountain 
rendezvous  a  parole  liberty  shall  be  granted 
thee  and  thy  followers.' 

4  Wall,1  said  Zeke,  hesitating  ;  '  don't 
know  but  that's  worth  considerin'  on  ;  '  but 
that  darn'd  captin'  o'  yourn  might  back  out' 

'  Romano  Falcon's  word  once  given,  is 
never  compromised.' 

'  Wall,  I'd  like  to  talk   over  the   matter 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


33 


with  him,  any  how.  'Sposin'  you  go  and  tell 
the  fellar  I  should  like  to  have  a  talk  with 
him.' 

'  Romano  Falcon  stands  before  thee !' 

'  Yeou  r 

'  Si,  Senor.' 

'  Git  aout,  now ;  can't  hardly  believe  that 
you're  the  chap  we've  heard  such  'tarnal  bad 
things  about !  You  don't  look  as  if  you'd 
like  to  roast  a  Yankee's  head  and  eat  it ! — 
You  ain't  coming  any  gum-game,  are  ye  V 

1 1  have  told  thee  the  truth.' 

1  Wall,  I  guess  you  have.  I'll  trust  ye, 
but  if  I  find  out  that  you're  deceiving  me, 
I'll  be  darn'd  if  I  don't  write  to  the  Presi- 
dent of  the  United  States  to  come  out  here, 
and  bring  the  whole  male  population  after 


him,  and  leave  the  women  to  take  the  reins 
of  government  into  their  own  hands.  The 
women  can  administer  justice  e'en-jest  as 
well  as  the  men.' 

*  You  need  not  fear — Romano  Falcon  will 
keep  his  word.' 

Here  this  rather  protracted  interview  was 
brought  to  a  close.  The  preliminaries  of  the 
surrender  having  been  completed  satisfacto- 
rily to  both  parties,  our  Yankee  lieutenant, 
and  his  small  band  became  prisoners  to  the 
renowned  Chieftain,  and  were  marched  off 
'oward  his  mountain  retreat ! 

In  regard  to  the  Light  Dragoons,  whom 
we  left  in  the  ravine,  we  shall  satisfy  our 
readers  in  the  next  chapter. 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


CHAPTER     V. 


••?  ,} 


Desperate  Conflict  of  the  Light  Dragoons  with  the  Rancheros  of  the  Poisoned  Lanct. 
Complete  Overthrow  of  the  Lancers.  Sudden  Appearance  of  a  Mexican  Maiden  on  an 
Errand  of  Mercy.  The  Poisoned  Wounds.  The  Antidote.  Surprise  of  Clifton. 
Allston's  First  Impressions.  The  Flight.  The  Pursuit.  The  Forest.  Perilous  Sit" 
uativn  of  Allston.  A  Successful  Stratagem,  Sad  Accident. 


S  MAY  well  be  supposed,  af- 
ter two  hours  had  elapsed, 
Clifton  began  to  entertain  very 
strong  apprehensions  in  regard 
to  tne  party  of  reconnoisance 
he  had  despatched  in  his  advance  to  examine 
ihe  pass.  He,  therefore,  resolved  to  push 
ahead  with  his  company  and  train  and  com- 
bat every  obstacle  which  might  tend  to  im- 
pede his  progress. 

Having  made  known  his  fears  to  his  com- 
pany, and  impressing  upon  them  the  neces- 
sity of  being  vigilant  and  prepared  for  any 
attack  by  ambuscade  or  otherwise,  he  gave 
the  order  to  march.  In  single  file  they  slow- 
ly entered  the  glen,  when,  perceiving  no 
signs  of  an  enemy,  they  once  more  halted 
for  the  purpose  of  partaking  of  the  cool  wa- 
ters of  the  Glen  Spring,  and  filling  their 
canteens,  they  continued  on  in  the  same  or- 
der as  before.  Emerging  from  the  rocky 
defile,  and  forming  into  platoons,  they  march- 
ed on,  but  had  scarcely  reached  the  spot 
where  the  reconnoitering  party  had  been 
surprised,  when  the  heavy  tramp  of  horses' 
feet  were  heard,  and  facing  suddenly  about, 
Clifton  saw  a  large  troop  of  Rancheros  gal- 
loping down  the  sides  of  the  declivity  which 
sloped  off  gradually  from  the  summit  of  the 
rocky  walls  which  formed  the  glen.  They 


approached  almost  within  gunshot  distance 
when  they  wheeled  into  line,  halted,  and  pre- 
pared to  charge  the  dragoons.     But  our  he- 
ro and  his  band  were  not  wholly  unprepar- 
ed, for  the  vigilance  which  had  been  order- 
ed was  not  in  the  least  relaxed.     The  train 
was  ordered    to   advance,  and    a   line  was 
quickly  formed  for  its  protection;  their  ri- 
fles   were    unslung,   and     with     surprising 
promptness  each  weapon  was  prepared  for  a 
desperate  defence.     Not  a  man  among  them 
doubted  the  result,  although  the  Ranchero 
lancers   nearly    doubly  outnumbered    them, 
and    with    their   long    weapons    glistening 
brightly  above  their  heads  made  a  very  im- 
posing and  formidable   appearance.     There 
was  no  summons  to  surrender — no  flag  of 
truce  displayed  by  the  Mexicans ;  but  there 
was  enough  in  their  movements,  looks,  and 
loud  commands  of  their  chieftain,  to  indicate 
that  no  cries  for  quarter  would  be  listened 
to  from  the  invader.     With  lances  poised 
they  waited  for  the  signal  to  charge  !     Th6 
chieftain  gave  the  word— the  bugle's  shrill 
blast  proclaimed  the  onset — and  each  lan- 
cer raising  himself  in  the  stirrup,  and  spur- 
ring his  steed  into  a  flying  gallop,  rushed  to- 
ward the  foe,  who  stood  a  living  fortification 
before  them.     Onward  they  rushed  as  if  in- 
tending to  win  the  victory  with  one  dreadful 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


blow  !  So  certain  was  their  chieftain  of  an 
easy  conquest,  that  he  took  precaution  to  or- 
der his  men  not  to  kill  the  horses,  unless  in 
cases  of  absolute  necessity,  for  he  coveted 
the  noble  looking  steeds  of  his  enemy. 

The  dragoons  awaited  the  coming  of  the 
lancers  with  undaunted  looks ;  net  a  shot 
was  fired  until  they  were  within  the  distance 
of  thirty  yards,  when  suddenly  the  cracking 
of  three  score  well  aimed  rifles  checked  for 
a  time  their  onward  career,  and  many  a  bold 
lancer  fell  from  his  charger  by  this  galling 
and  unexpected  reception ! 

The  Ranchero  leader  enraged  at  the  fal- 
tering of  his  troop,  with  loud  curses  and 
threats  again  ordered  them  to  the  charge! — 
Madly  they  rushed  forward  pell-mell  among 
the  dragoons  ere  they  had  opportunity  lo  re- 
load their  rifles.  But  they  had  not  forgotten 
those  little  instruments  of  death — the  re- 
volvers— which  showered  the  bullets  among 
the  Rancheros  with  dreadful  effect!  Con- 
fusion and  dismay  were  in  their  midst,  and 
alter  unhorsing  and  wounding  a  few  among 
the  unterrified  dragoons,  the  lancers  made  a 
flying  retreat,  leaving  more  than  one  third 
of  their  numbers  upon  the  field,  either  dead 
dying  or  wounded. 

Two  only  of  Clifton's  men  were  killed 
though  several  were  dangerously  wounded 
and  he,  as  well  as  Lieutenant  Allston,  hac 
received  flesh  wounds  from  the  lances  o 
their  impetuous  assailants.  Not  regarding 
themselves,  however,  they  ordered  every  at 
tention  paid  to  the  Mexican  as  well  as  th< 
American  sufferers,  and  even  assisted  per 
sonally  in  alleviating  their  distresses. 

From  one  of  the  Rancheros,  who  waslef 
upon  the  field,  Clifton  learned  that  it  wa 
with  Canales'  band  of  desperadoes  whom  h 
had  just  had  so  severe  a  contest ;  and  th 
fact,  although  at  first  he  could  scarcely  cred 
it  it,  that  his  party  of  reconnoisance  had  no 
fallen  into  the  power  of  the  Lancers.  He  or 
dered  this  prisoner  to  the  rear,  resolving  th 
he  would  endeavor  to  gain  from  him  some  far 
ther  information  that  might  prove  of  impor 
tance  to  the  American  cause. 


The  result  of  this  conflict  of  course  was 
eculiarly  gratifying  to  our  hero,  inasmuch 
s  he  had  signally  defeated  a  superior  force 
[i  point  of  numbers,  and  that  force  was  a 
awless  band  of  ruffian  Rancheros,  and  one 

hich  had  been  of  peculiar  annoyance  to 
he  Americans  from  the  day  that  their  ban- 
ter was  first  unfurled  upon  the  Rio  Grande, 
t  was,  too,  his  first  battle — his  first  victory  ! 
ind  his  eye  kindled  with  pride  as  he  thought 
>f  the  gallant  conduct  displayed  by  every 
one  of  the  dragoons — and  he,  though  a  strip- 
ing as  he  regarded  himself,  was  their  com- 
mander !— he  had  planned  and  directed  the 
uccessful  defence  and  overthrow  of  their 
murderous  assailants !  It  was,  indeed,  a 
matter  for  congratulatory  thoughts  ;  but  as 
he  contemplated  the  scene  of  carnage  be- 
bre  him,  and  beheld  his  owa  sword  reeking 
with  the  blood  of  even  a  revengeful  foe,  he 

oulrl  not  suppress  a  tear  of  pity  for  all  who 
lad  fallen  in  the  fight ;  and   he  entertained 
unpleasant  doubts  as  to  the  glory  of  shedding 
human  blood,  though  it  were   in  honorable 
combat !    And  more  than  this  it  was  a  doubt 
in  his  mind  whether  the  aggressive  war  his 
countrymen  were  waging  was  founded  upon 
the  principles  of  justice  and  in  accordance 
with  the  true  spirit  of  republicanism.    These 
things  he  had  heard  suggested  before  he  left 
his    own    land,   but  he   had   heeded   them 
not — his  patriotic  ardor  impelled  him  on- 
ward to  hazard  life  and  all  in  the  service  of 
his  country.     But  his  reflections  were  soon 
interrupted.    His  attention  was  now  arrested 
by  the   quick  approach   of  a   female,   who 
suddenly  emerged  from  the  wood  on  the  op- 
posite side  of  the  plain.     She  tripped  with 
light  and  hurried  steps  over  the  bloody  field, 
giving  no  heed  to  the  dead  and  dying  which 
were  strewn  along  her  path.      She  gazed 
around  among  the  victors  whose  eyes  were 
mostly  bent  upon  her,  and  perceiving  one 
who  stood  apart  from  the  rest,  whose  uni- 
form marked  him  as  a  leader,  she  approach- 
ed and  respectfully  saluted  him, 

Clifton  returned  her  salute,  but  he  gazed 


36 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


upon  her  with  wonder.  He  saw  that  she 
was  beautiful,  for  her  eyes  sparkled  like  twin 
diamonds,  yet  the  lower  part  of  her  face  was 
veiled.  Her  manner  surprised  him  most,  for 
she  seemed  much  agitated,  and  some  mo- 
ments elapsed  as  she  stood  in  presence  of 
Clifton,  before  she  could  give  utterance  to 
a  single  word,  and  when  she  did  speak,  she 
exclaimed  in  almost  breathless  accents  : 
'  Por  le  amor  de  Dios,  Senor  Capitan — ' 
'  Non  entendir  de  lengua,  Espanola  /'  said 
Clifton,  bringing  into  requisition  nearly  all 
the  Spanish  he  had  mastered. 

1  Habla  F.  Engles  ?'  (Do  you  speak  Eng- 
lish?) she  enquired. 

*  Yes.' 

*  I  understand  it  a  little/  she  continued,  in 
tolerably  good  English,  though  with  a  strong 
Spanish  accent. 

'  Then  tell  me  your  errand,  quickly.' 

<  Si,  caballero.' 

'  You  seem  agitated  ;  pray  calm  your  feel- 
ings,' said  he,  looking  upon  her  with  an  in- 
terested but  tender  expression. 

1  You  have  had  a  terrible  battle?'  said  she, 
enquiringly. 

'  We  have.' 

'  And  from  appearances  you  have  been 
victorious?' 

'  Most  signally.' 

'  You  may  think  it  strange  that  a  Mexican 
maiden  can  say  that  she  is  heartily  glad  of 
the  result.' 

4  Strange,  indeed !  how  shall  I  account 
for  it?' 

'  First  let  me  inquire  if  many  of  your  sol- 
diers are  wounded  ?' 

1  Several ;  though  I  think  not  very  severe- 
ly.' 

1  Are  they  lance  wounds?' 

*  Without  a  single  exception,  I  believe,  and 
I  thought  it  somewhat  remarkable.' 

'  Dios  de  Cielo!'  exclaimed  the  maiden; 
*  Well  you  might  have  thought  it  remarkable. 
Those  with  whom  you  have  this  day  been 
engaged  in  mortal  combat  are  the  RAN- 

CHEROS  OP  THE  POISONED  LANCE  !' 


'  What  mean  you  ?'  ejaculated  Clifton, 
amazed  at  her  earnestness  as  she  uttered  the 
potent  words  by  which  she  meant  Canales' 
desperadoes  should  be  known  to  all  Mexico. 

'If  you  follow  not  my  directions,  all, 
of  your  band,  whose  flesh  has  been  marred 
by  the  lance  in  this  dreadful  encounter,  even 
if  the  wound  be  no  deeper  than  a  needle's 
scratch,  are  dead  men  before  the  sun  sinks 
beneath  yon  high  mountain's  peak.' 

*  I  have  a  slight  wound  myself,'  said  Clif- 
ton, who  began  now  to  think  the  maiden  ei- 
ther a  spy  or  a  maniac, '  but  it  gives  me  little 
pain  and  less  inconvenience.     And,  admit- 
ting that  we  have  been  wounded  by  enven- 
omed lances,  before  I  give  credence  to  your 
story,  explain  to  me  the  apparent  inconsist- 
ency which  your  conduct  betrays  in  offering 
to  befriend  when  you  should  seek  to  destroy 
the  enemies  of  your  country  and  your  peo- 
ple?' 

.«   "  f  »  "  .      .|  ,.-,  ;  I  C'    -  ! 

*  For  the  love  of  Heaven,  ask  not  for  any 
explanation,  now — God  alone  knows  my  mo- 
tive, and  he,  too,  knows  that  I  am  not  trying 
to  deceive  you !     Therefore,  I  beseech  you 
to  delay  not,  for  the  fatal  hour  is  near !' 

These  words  were  spoken  with  so  much 
warmth  and  apparent  sincerity,  that  Clifton 
began  to  think  his  suspicions  might  prove 
unfounded. 

1  The  Rancheros  war  not  as  Christians  !' 
continued  the  strange  girl !  They  would 
sacrifice  you  and  your  troop  to  their  impla- 
cable hatred  and  thirst  for  plunder  !  Give 
my  counsel  heed  or  Death  will  soon  mark 
you  for  his !' 

'  What  would  you  do  ?'  enquired  Clifton, 
with  increasing  confidence. 

*  I  would  save  your  life  and  the  lives  of 
your  brave  companions  ?' 

*  I  mean  by  what  power  ?' 

'  I  have  a  safe  and  certain  antidote  to  the 
poisonous  liquid  with  which  the  Ranchero's 
lance  is  bathed.  Here  it  is!'  and  she  pro- 
duced from  her  bosom  an  ounce  phial,  filled 
with  a  blood  red  liquid.  Let  me  but  apply 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


a  drop  to  the  wound,  and  the  power  of  the 
poison  will  be  speedily  checked.' 

'  Unveil  your  face,  maiden,  and  if  those 
concealed  lineaments  comport  with  those 
love  beaming  eyes,  and  the  sweet  voice  that  1 
have  heard,  I  will  believe  thee  an  angel  sent 
by  Providence  to  befriend  me.' 

'  But  you  may  hereafter  have  it  in  your 
power  to  betray  me  V 

'  Never  1  though  my  life  depended  upon 
the  betrayal !' 

'  Swear  to  this!' 

1 1  swear.' 

The  maiden  unveiled  he*  Face,  and  dis- 
closed as  sweet  and  ingenuous  a  counte- 
nance as  ever  a  daughter  of  Mexico  could 
boast  of.  It  was  decidedly  handsome,  too  ; 
her  cheeks  and  lips  were  of  the  cherry's 
hue:  and  a  beautiful  sett  of  teeth,  which 
was  revealed  every  time  she  spoke,  excelled 
the  pearl  in  whiteness.  Her  hair,  black  and 
glossy,  flowed  over  a  neck  and  shoulders, 
almost  concealing  the  pure  and  transparent 
complexion  beneath,  which  bore  but  a  slight 
tinge  of  that  dark  hue  which  characterizes 
the  (laughters  of  that  sunny  land  !  She  was 
transcendantly  beautiful — so  thought  our 
gallant  hero — so  thought  the  young  lieuten- 
ant, Allston,  who  stood  but  a  few  feet  in  the 
rear  of  his  commander,  completely  entranc- 
ed with  the  wondrous  beauty  which  charac- 
terized every  feature  of  the  fair  Mexican — 
there  was  a  charm  in  the  very  expression  of 
her  large  eyes  that  enchained  him  to  the 
spot. 

Our  readers  are  undoubtedly  aware,  from 
circumstances  already  revealed,  that  this  fair 
creature  was  none  other  than  Donna  Elvira  ; 
and  as  she  turned  her  attention  for  a  moment 
from  the  gallant  captain,  her  eyes  met  the 
ardent  gaze  of  the  no  less  gallant  but  youth- 
ful lieutenant — it  was  but  for  a  moment,  for 
she  modestly  turned  them  away  and  again 
addressed  Clifton  : 

'  Senor  Capitan,'  said  she,  '  you  hesitate  ; 
shall  I  again  veil  my  face?' 

'No,  fair  creature;    I—I — '  stammered 
3 


Allston,  stepping  one  or  two  paces  forward, 
scarcely  knowing  what  he  did   or  what  he 

was  saying;  '  I  beg  pardon — I *   and 

he  blushed  confusedly. 

1  Will  you  listen  to  me  T  said  she,  addres- 
sing Clifton  ,  *  remember  !  you  do  not  real- 
ize the  peril  in  which  you  are  placed,  and 
what  an  hour  may  bring  forth.1 

*  What  say  you,  Allston  ;  shall  we  confide 
in  this  fair  Mexican  senoritat'  asked  Clifton, 
perceiving    the  embarrassment   which    her 
charms  had  so  suddenly  caused  in  him  ;  '  you 
have  heard  the  nature  of  her  errand.  Speak, 
Henry,  you  seem  bewildered.' 

1  Believe,  captain — oh,  believe  her  !'  an- 
swered the  lieutenant,  warmly — the  Prince 
of  Evil,  himself,  could  not  create  a  being  of 
such  angelic  beauty,  of  such  apparent  inno- 
cence, to  betray  or  destroy.  No,  captain, 
believe  her  the  angel  of  our  salvation,  sent 
by  Providence  to  save  us  from  the  fearful 

r 

death  she  has  warned  us  of.' 

4  Thank  you,  kind  Senor,  for  your  inter- 
cession and  confidence,'  said  Elvira,  again 
venturing  to  meet  the  youthful  officer's  gaze  ; 
'  but  I  must  ask  you  to  be  less  lavish  of  such 
extravagant  flattery.' 

Henry  again  blushed  and  bowed  his  head, 
but  he  made  no  reply. 

*  My  suspicions  have  vanished — you  shali 
have  my  confidence/  said  Clifton. 

'  Where  is  your  wound  ?'  asked  Elvira. 

'Tis  on  my  breast.' 

'  Examine  it,  and  before  this  antidote  be 
applied,  you  shall  have  further  proof  of  my 
sincerity.  If  the  flesh  around  the  wound,  by 
this  time,  has  not  become  of  a  greenish  hue, 
then  your  wound  was  not  made  by  a  poi- 
soned lance.' 

'  It  is  but  a  scratch  at  most,'  said  Clifton, 
as  he  bared  his  breast. 

But  terror  seized  him  the  instant  his  eye 
rested  upon  the  scratch,  as  he  termed  it — 
his  face,  which  a  moment  previously  was 
flushed  was  now  deadly  pale — his  lips  quiv- 
ered, and  his  very  nerves  seemed  unstrung  ! 
The  appearance  of  the  wound  was,  indeed, 


38 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


singularly  alarming.  The  poison  which  had 
begun  its  dread  work  had  gradually  shown 
its  effects  by  spreading  from  the  wound,  and 
a  circle  of  several  inches  was  already  dyed 
with  green  ;  the  shade  growing  lighter  as  it 
spread  from  the  centre. 

Allston,  who  had  received  a  slight  cut  up- 
on the  arm,  threw  off  his  coat  and  rolled  up 
his  sleeve,  meanwhile,  and  he  was  quite  as 
much  affrighted  as  his  captain,  though  he 
had  more  implicit  faith  in  the  promise  of  the 
sweet  creature,  before  whom  he  c.ould  have 
fallen  down  and  worshipped.  t 

1  Fear  not !'  said  the  gentle  physician,  in 
accents  sweetly  encouraging;  'there  is  yet 
no  danger.  Here  is  that  which  will  eradi- 
cate every  trace  of  the  poison  in  an  incredi- 
ble short  space  of  time.' 

She  took  a  soft  sponge  from  beneath  her 
mantilla,  and  moistening  it  with  the  red  li- 
quid in  the  phial,  and  applied  it  with  her  own 

*  TOT  :.  *  13    OJ 

hand  to  the  poisoned  wound. 

Then  turning  to  young  Allston,  she  per- 
formed the  same  kind  office  for  him.  Then 
giving  the  phial  and  sponge  to  Clifton  bade 
him,  as  he  valued  the  lives  of  the  men,  to 
see  that  the  antidote  was  immediately  applied 
to  all  who  had  lance  wounds. 

Clifton  hastened  to  the  wounded  men,  all 
of  whom  were  expressing  much  alarm  at  the 
strange  aspect  which  the  lance  incisions  pre- 
sented. With  his  own  hands  he  bathed  the 
wounds  with  the  precious  liquid  j  all  wil- 
lingly submitting,  when  he  told  them  that 
it  already  was  having  the  promised  effect  on 
his  own  person. 

The  antidote,  in  truth,  operated  like  a 
charm,  and  in  a  very  short  time  restored  the 
flesh  in  all  the  cases,  to  the  natural  hue  of 
ordinary  incisions. 

Meanwhile  Clifton  was  doing  the  duties 
of  a  doctor  among  his  wounded  men,  the 
young  lieutenant  was  striving  with  all  the 
persuasiveness  in  his  power  to  detain  the 
angelic  Senorita,  with  whose  dazzling  love- 
liness he  was  charmed,  entranced,  bewilder- 
ed 1  She  declined  listening  to  his  fervent 


protestations  ;  and  it  was  with  difficulty  that 
he  made  her  sensible  of  his  appreciation  of 
the  almost  miraculous  work  she  had  per- 
formed. He  offered  a  purse  of  gold  as  a 
reward  for  what  she  had  done  for  him,  but  it 
was  promptly  declined.  He  finally  took  from 
his  neck  a  gold  chain,  to  which  was  append- 
ed a  striking  miniature  of  a  beloved  sisterr 
and  which  also  bore  considerable  resem- 
blance to  himself,  and  placed  it  around  the 
fair  neck  of  Elvira.  She  looked  at  the  min- 
iature and  then  gazed  into  his  face.  With- 
out asking  any  questions  she  smiled  and  put 
the  miniature  into  her  bosom,  regarding  it 
as  a  token  of  his  unbounded  gratitude.  She 
was  on  the  point  of  bidding  him  adieu,  but 
he  again  detained  her,  and  requested  per- 
mission to  be  her  escort  to  her  home  ;  but 
she  positively  declined.  Neither  could  his 
most  eloquent  entreaties  prevail  upon  her  to 
reveal  her  name,  or  whither  she  had  come, 
or  whither  she  was  going  ;  for  reasons,  which 
the  reader,  in  all  probability,  has  already  di- 
vined, yet  a  perfect  mystery  to  Henry  Alls- 
•?  •/  *  j  j  j 

ton. 

She  looked  into  the  youth's  face  once 
more — once  more  smiled  sweetly  upon  him 
— and  uttering  a  last  farewell,  she  bounded 
away  from  him,  and  sped  across  the  plain 
with  the  spesd  of  a  frightened  deer  ! 

Allston  gazed  upon  her  flight  for  a  few 
moments,  uncertain  how  to  act.  At  length, 
muttering  to  himself, 

(  Fool  am  I  thus  to  let  her  flee  from  me — 
perhaps  forever — 'without  endeavoring  to 
gain  some  clue  at  least  of  her  abode — it  can- 
not be  afar  off!'  and  off  he  started  in  pursuit, 
but  she  gained  the  wood  many  rods  in  ad- 
vance, yet  he  continued  the  pursuit. 

Clifton  re-appeared  where  he  had  left  them 
just  as  he  espied  his  brother  officer  enter  the 
wood,  running  at  the  tip  of  his  speed.  Mis- 
trusting his  errand  rightly,  his  quick  disap- 
pearance gave  him  no  uneasiness,  for  he 
thought  his  usual  prudence  would  prevent 
him  from  trusting  himself  alone  a  great  way 
from  his  company. 


...  , 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


39 


Upon  the  field  of  that  brief  and  bloody  I  of  his  adventure,  thus  far,  though  he  fain 
engagement,  the  victorious  dragoons  pitch-  would  have  spoken  again  to  the  beautiful 
ed  their  tents,  and  bivouacked  for  the  night,  stranger,  he  turned  to  find  his  way  back  to 
Not  a  soldier  of  that  corps  closed  his  eyes  his  comrades.  He  walked  along  with  a  mod- 
without  a  heartfelt  prayer  for  the  welfare  of  erate  step,  with  his  thought  wholly  concen- 
the  beautiful  yet  mysterious  creature  who  trated  upon  one  image  of  loveliness,  not 
had  defeated  the  hellish  intent  of  the  Ran-  even  giving  his  mind  for  a  moment  upon  the 
cheros  of  the  Poisoned  Lance  !  strange  wood  he  was  pursuing,  until,  in- 

But  where  is  Allston  ?  Why  does  he  not  stead  of  having  reached  the  plain  where  his 
return?  were  questions  which  Clifton  re-  comrade's  tents  were  pitched,  he  again  found 
peatedly  put  to  himself?  The  camp  fires  himself  in  sight  of  the  same  ranch  he  had 
were  lighted — the  sentry  posted — and  yet  he  half  an  hour  before  discovered,  though  he 
came  riot.  was  now  in  the  rear  of  the  main  building  in- 

stead of  in  front  as  before. 

But  let  us  follow  yet  farther  the  pursued       This  fact  rather  startled  him,  and  brought 
and  her  pursuer.     Allston  had   struck  the   him  to  his  senses,  for  the  dusky  shades  of 
little  path  which  Elvira  had  taken,  and   fol-  twilight  had  already  somewhat  obscured  the 
lowed  it  with  all  the  speed   in  his  power. —  laybrinthine  paths  he  had  been  unconscious- 
At  intervals  he  caught  a  glimpse  of  her  fly-  ly  pursuing.     He  now  followed,  within  the 
ing  wardrobe,  but  at  each  succeeding  time  edge  of  the  wood,  a  path  which  led  him  to 
the  space  between  them  had  widened ;  yet.  the  very  spot,  whence  he  had  started  previ- 
he  continued  on   without   knowing  whither  ously.     From  this  point  he  shaped  his  course 
he  was  going,  or  when  he  was  to  stop.     He   according  to  the  best  of  his  judgment,  de- 
had  followed   her  well   nigh  half  a  league,    termining  now  to  dismiss  his  inamorata  from 
when  he  lost  sight  of  her   altogether;    be-    his   mind,  and   regain  the   camp    before  it 
sides,  he  was  uncertain  about  the  path,  for  should  become  completely  dark,  for  the  idea 
there  were  many  running  in  various  direc-  of  being  benighted  alone  in  a  strange  wood 
tions  in  that  part  of  the  wood  he  was  now   was  decidedly  disagreeable,  as  may  be  sup- 
in.     Being  well  nigh  out  of  breath,  he  slack-  posed,  to  a  youth  like  him. 
ened    his  speed,  and  would  have  turned  to       The  golden  light  which  yet  faintly  tinged 
retrace  his  steps,  had  he  not  perceived  indi-  the  sky  of  the  Occident  was  his  only  beacon 
cations  of  an   opening   ahead.     Continuing   to  guide  him  in  the  course  he  had  marked 
on  half  a  mile  further,  he  came  to  the  plain,   out;  but  that  soon  failed  him,  and  he  saw 
in  which  was  situated   the  ranch  of  Senor   naught  but  the  tall  trees  of  that  forest  as  he 
Espindola,  with  which  the  reader  is  slightly   passed  them,  and  the  twinkling  light  of  a 
acquainted;  but  to  his  amazement  he  dis-   few  stars  in  the  very  zenith  of  the  heavens, 
covered  groups  of  soldiers  and  horses  stand-       Soon  he   heard   the   tramping  of  horses' 
ing  promiscuously  together  about  theorem-  feet — and  now  the  glimmer  of  a  light  upon 
ises,  and  from   their   appearance  he  was  al-  his  right  hand — turning  he  saw  another  di- 
most  convinced  they  were  a  portion  of  the   rectly  in  front — another  on  his  left — and  yet 
Ranchero  force  his  own  company  had  so  re-   another  and  another  appeared  until   the  for- 
cently  signally  defeated — but  he  could  per-  est  was  illumined  by   their  light.     Nearer 
ceive  no  glimpse  of  the  fair  object  of  his   and  nearer  in  every  direction  the  torches  ap- 


pursuit,  although  it  appeared  more  than 
probable  to  his  mind  that  the  ranch  he  had 
discovered  was  her  abiding  place. 

Not  wholly  disappointed  with  the  results 


proached  him  as  if  the  bearers  were  striving 
to  hem  him  in.  At  first  he  thought  that  a 
party  might  have  been  sent  from  his  own 
corps  in  search  of  him  ;  but  in  a  moment  he 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON 


found  to  his  amazement  that  it  was  a  scout- 
ing party  of  Rancheros,  and  in  all  probabil- 
ity he  was  the  object  of  their  singular  move- 
ments !  There  was  no  chance  for  flight  or 
concealment — to  attempt  to  defend  himself 
seemed  equally  preposterous.  But  a  mo- 
ment's reflection  told  him  that  should  he  fall 
into  their  hands  without  one  effort,  death 
would  be  more  certain  than  if  he  made  a 
desperate  defence.  He  had  barely  time  to 
seize  his  revolver,  when  a  savage  looking 
Ranchero  discovered  him,  who  immediately 
galloped  toward  him  with  loud  cries  of — 

'  Surrender  !  surrender  !' 

The  peremptory  summons  was  answered 
by  a  flash  and  a  crack  from  the  revolver,  and 
the  Mexican  fell  lifeless  from  the  saddle. 

Allston  seized  the  horse's  bridle — snatch- 
ed the  cap  from  the  head  of  the   defeated  j  by,  for  in  their  confusion  at  the  loss  of  an- 
Mexican  and  placed  it  upon  his  own  head —  j  other   comrade  they  saw   not   the   accident 


vengeance,  they  started  off  once  more  in 
pursuit  of  their  enemy,  who  was  but  little 
more  than  pistol  shot  in  advance.  They 
gradually  gained  upon  him — he  turned  to 
look  back  upon  his  pursuers,  and  the  mo- 
ment a  good  opportunity  offered  he  again 
discharged  his  revolver,  and  another  Ran- 
chero fell  from  the  saddle ! 

But  this  event  nearly  cost  Allston  his  life. 
The  moment  he  fired,  the  horse  on  which  he 
rode  started  ahead  with  affright,  and  ere  he 
could  rein  him  into  the  narrow  opening,  he 
made  a  leap  into  the  thickest  of  the  wood — 
a  projecting  branch  struck  the  youth,  and 
swept  him  from  the  horse — he  fell  senseless 
among  «ome  shrubbery  that  grew  in  small 
patches  in  various  parts  of  the  forest,  and 
was  unnoticed  by  the  pursuers  as  they  rode 


and  vaulted  into  the  saddle.  It  was  but  the 
wonderful  act  of  a  moment — yet  there  was 
time  for  some  eight  or  ten  Rancheros  to 
fly  to  the  spot,  and  the  brave  youth  found 
himself  in  their  very  midst !  They  heard  a  | 


which  had  occurred  to  him.  The  horse 
being  now  free  of  a  rider  bounded  onward 
with  renewed  speed — but  the  pursuers  kept 
on  the  chase,  thinking  of  course  that  he  still 
bore  away  their  enemy  !  Henry  Allston  had 


pistol  report,  and  the  death  groan  which  i  thus  far  by  stratagem  and  a  timely  accident 
succeeded,  and  they  supposed  that  their  ene- }  eluded  the  vigilance  of  his  revengeful  pur- 
my  had  fallen  by  the  hand  of  one  of  their  suers  ! 

own  comrades.  This  supposition  so  com-'  Mortified,  maddened,  enraged,  the  Ran- 
pletely  deceived  them  that,  while  crowding  |  cheros,  minus  two,  returned  to  their  quarter 


around  together  to  take  a  look  at  the  fallen 
one,  Allston  suddenly  turned  the  horse's 
head  and  rode  away  with  all  the  speed  that 
was  possible,  considering  the  darkness  and 
density  of  the  forest ! 

But  a  loud  yell,  as  if  the  fiends  of  pande- 
monium were  let  loose,  now  fell  upon  his 
ear !  The  Rancheros  had  recognized  the 
body  of  their  comrade,  and  discovered  the 
trick  which  had  been  played  as  soon  as  they 
found  that  the  dead  man's  cap  was  missing, 
and  saw  their  enemy's  cap  lying  in  its  place  ! 
Nothing  could  have  enraged  them  more — 
with  terrific  yells  and  curses  and  cries  for 


without  their  intended  victim.  Allston  was 
discovered  by  them,  the  second  time  he  found 
himself,  unintentionally,  near  the  ranch  of 
Senor  Espindola ;  and,  supposing  him  a  spy 
a  number  of  the  lancers  volunteered  to  go  in 
pursuit,  vowing  that  if  he  was  caught,  an 
execution  of  torture  should  be  his  fate  ! 
*  *  *  *  # 

The  camp  of  the  Light  Dragoons  were 
alarmed  that  night  by  the  sudden  coming  of 
a  steed  within  their  outposts !  But  their 
alarm  abated  when  they  saw  it  was  but  the 
steed  of  a  Mexican,  and  though  saddled  and 
bridled  it  bore  no  rider ! 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


41 


CHAPTER     VI. 

The   Rendezvous  of  the  Rancher os.      Capture  of  an  American    Train.     An    Officer  of 
Rank,  with  his  Daughter,  in  the  Power  of  the  Lancers.     Canales'  Account  of  his  De- 
feat by  the  Light  Dragoons.     The  Must  rious  Weapons.     lVolver  Pistolete.'     Acci- 
dental Death  of  a  Ravchero.     Canahs'    Unconcern. 


N  THE  day  succeeding  the 
remarkable  events  narrated  in 
the  previous  chapter,  all  was 
bustle  and  confusion  at  the 
ranch  of  Senor  Espindola. — 
There  was  another  cause  for  this  than  is  yet 
known  to  the  reader ;  another  event  had  oc- 
curred, truly  gratifying  to  Canales  and  his 
band,  which  we  must  not  omit  to  mention. 
A  detachment  of  some  fifteen  or  twenty 
Rancheros,  under  the  command  of  Jose 
Villarno,  an  inferior  officer,  had  surprised 
and  captured  a  small  American  train,  and 
besides  the  arrieros,  some  six  or  eight  Amer- 
icans, among  whom  was  a  Colonel  of 
dragoons,  and  his  daughter,  a  young  lady  of 
scarcely  sixteen  years  of  age.  They  were 
forthwith  conveyed  to  Espindola's  ranch, 
which  served  not  only  as  a  rendezvous  for 
the  Rancheros,  but  for  a  stipulated  sum  the 
buildings  were  allowed  to  be  used  as  a  bar- 
racks, and  two  strongly  constructed  rooms 
in  a  part  of  one  of  them  were  converted  in- 
to a  prison,  in  which  their  recent  captives 
were  now  confined. 

Canales,  on  hearing  of  the  good  success 
of  Villarno's  detachment,  determined  on 
avenging  himself  for  what  he  had  suffered 
in  his  conflict  with  the  Light  Dragoons. — 
His  first  determination  was  to  lead  out  the 


prisoners  and  shoot  them  without  a  mo- 
ment's warning,  reserving  the  young  female 
captive  for  a  worse  fate !  but  he  was  res- 
trained from  this  unmerciful  and  barbarous 
course  by  the  interference  of  Juliano,  as 
well  as  by  every  one  of  his  subordinate  offi- 
cers. This  interference,  however,  was  only 
prompted  by  motives  of  selfishness.  Upon 
being  made  acquainted  with  the  character 
and  grade  of  the  prisoners,  he  finally  was 
influenced  to  believe  that  his  best  and  most 
profitable  course  was  to  spare  their  lives  f6r 
the  present ;  and,  perhaps,  a  ransom  migh't 
be  had  by  a  reasonable  delay. 

'It  is  well/  remarked  he  to  Juliano,  after 
he  had  reluctantly  consented  to  the  sugges- 
tions of  his  corhrades ;  *  but  by  all  the  pow- 
ers of  hell  they  shall  not  slip  through  my  fin- 
gers without  a  heavy  ransom  or  their  life's 
blood  !  And  as  for  that  fair  northern  dam- 
sel, whose  beauty  Villarno  has  described  to 
me,  a  hundred  doubloons  shall  not  purchase 
her  freedom  !  By  the  blood  of  my  ances- 
tors, she  must  be  a  comely  lass  if  half  Vil- 
larno says  of  her  be  true.' 

'  Si,  Senor  Capitan,'  answered  Juliano ; 
'  I  think,  however,  she  cannot  be  so  beauti- 
ful as  the  lovely  Donna  Elvira.  Villarno 
said  they  bore  a  slight  resemblance  to  each 
other.' 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


'Ah,  Juliano,  thou  thinkest  of  little  else 
besides  Donna  Elvira.  Thou  art  as  deeply 
in  love  as  a  poor  devil  well  could  be..  Come, 
give  thy  thoughts  to  something  greater,  no- 
bler, and  leave  off  this  child's  play.  Rec- 
ollect we  have  great  deeds  to  perform  in  de- 
fence of  our  country  ;  or  more  rationally 
viewing  the  niattar,  in  bettering  the  condi- 
tion of  our  finances.  Truly,  notwithstand- 
ing the  two  sad  defeats  we  have  sustained, 
this  war  is  a  perfect  God-send  to  us — we 
may  yet  suffer  more — but  better  suffer  in  a 
war  with  the  northern  barbarians,  who  have 
plenty  of  gold,  than  to  be  constantly  enga- 
ged in  broils  at  home,  without  money  to  pay 
even  our  ragmuffin  soldiery.' 

'  Too  true/  replied  Juliano  ;  '  but  a  few 
engagements  like  that  of  yesterday  would 
complete  our  ruin.  Would  that  I  had  been 
there,  instead  of  obeying  your  orders  to  re- 
main here.' 

*  Come,  conae — no  more  of  that,'  said  Ca- 
nales.     '  I  would  have  staked  my  life  on  an 
easy  victory  when  we  first  encountered  the 
enemy.' 

*  How  was  it  then  that  the  tables  were  so 
signally  turned?' 

'  It  was  so  sudden  and  unexpected  that  I 
lost  my  usual  self-possession  when  in  battle,' 
replied  Canales.  We  charged  upon  them 
with  an  impetuosity  that  I  thought  could  not 
fail  to  overwhelm  them ;  but  ere  we  reached 
their  line  they  sent  into  our  ranks  such  u 
shower  of  bullets  that  our  men  seemed  to 
fall  by  scoies.  It  appears  almost  incredible 
when  I  think  of  the  havoc  the'y  made  by 
their  first  fire.  The  enemy  I  judged  num- 
bered not  over  eighty  all  told,  and  the  leaden 
hail  came  as  thickly  into  our  midst  as  if  an 
entire  regiment  of  infantry  had  poured  a 
volley  upon  us  !  The  galling  effect  of  such 
a  fire  at  so  shori  a  distance  you  can  well  im- 
agine. We  were  thrown  into  dreadful  dis- 
order and  confusion  for  a  moment  or  two  ; 
but  having  drawn  their  fire,  I  succeeded  in 
rallying  our  men — and  onward  we  pressed 
with  irresistible  fury !  With  our  long  and 


I  heavy 
Ik..*  v,« 


lances  we  broke  into  their  very  midst ; 
but  here  our  men  fell  faster  than  ever,  from 
the  fire  of  small  and  curiously  shaped  weap- 
ons which  they  displayed  as  soon  as  we  were 
upon  them !  But  what  most  added  to  my 
astonishment  was  the  remarkable  fact  that 
they  could  discharge  one  of  these  little  but 
terrible  fire-arms  several  times  without  re- 
loading ;  and  before  we  could  fly  from  their 
I  most  murderous  effects  more  than  one-third 
of  our  men  either  fell  upon  the  field  or  were 
borne  away  wounded  !  If  all  the  soldiers  of 
their  armies  possess  such  destructive  weap- 
ons as  those  we  had  to  contend  with,  all  the 
legions  of  Mexico  and  of  the  infern.al  re- 
gions combined  will  never  be  able  to  cope 
with  or  check  the  advance  of  these  invading 
northern  savages.  I  would  give  a  small  for- 
tune to  gain  possession  of  one  of  these 
wonderful  weapons.' 

*  Glad  to  have  it  in  my  power  to  serve  you, 
Senor  Capitan,'  said  Juliano,  taking  a  pair 
of  revolvers  from  his  pocket.  '  Thou  shalt 
possess  one  without  the  fortune.  I'll  show 
my  generosity  by  presenting  thee  with  one 
of  these  deadly  instruments  which  the  bar- 
barians style  Volvcr  Pistolete  ;'  and  the  lieu- 
tenant placed  one  of  the  weapons  in  the 
hand  of  his  astonished  chief.' 

I  Es  una  admiracion!'   exclaimed   Cana- 
les, examining  the  ingeniously  constructed 
weapon  with  scrutiny.    '  How  possessed  thy- 
self of  these,  Juliano?' 

I 1  found  them  upon  the  person  of  one  of 
the  prisoners  since  they  were  brought  hith- 
er, Villarno  not  having  discovered  them  in 
his  search/ 

'  They  may  have  more  of  them  concealed 
about  their  persons  ?'  suggested  Canales. 

'  We  searched  them  all  and  discovered  no 
more.' 

'  By  San  Pedro,  it  hath  six  barrels  !  No 
wonder  the  Yankee  naranjos  won  the  day  ! 
I'd  rather  have  a  hundred  horsemen,  armed 
with  such  weapons  as  these  than  a  whole 
regiment  of  infantry  with  escopetas.  But 
how  is  it  that  these  little  man-killers  are  man- 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


43 


atged  ?    I  do  not  quite  understand  them  yet.' 

'  Neither  do  I,'  answered  the  lieutenant; 
1  but  I  advise  thee  to  be  cautious,  for  each 
barrel  is  charged. 

Without  giving  heed  to  this  precaution, 
•Canales  continued  to  pry  into  the  mysteries 
of  the  revolver,  and  just  as  he  had  discover- 
ed that  by  means  of  the  trigger  the  barrels 
revolved,  one  of  them  went  off,  and  a  loud 
groan  was  heard. 

'  You  have  shot  some  one,  captain  !'  ex- 
claimed Juliano;  and  he  ran  towards  the 
group  whence  the  groan  proceeded. 

'  It  is  only  one  of  our  new  recruits,'  said 
the  lieutenant,  immediately  returning — '  that 
Don  Diego  Marin,  as  he  styles  himself.' 

'  Pobre  diablo  !'  (poor  devil)  said  Cana- 
9es,  quite  unconcerned.  *  It  is  the  best  thing 
I  could  have  dene  for  him,  and  he  will  be  no 
great  of  a  losa  to  us.  But  I  have  found  out 
the  secret,  Juliano  ;'  and  he  discharged  the 
five  remaining  balls  at  a  tree  about  three 
rods  distant,  with  considerable  precision. 

'  Good  shots,  Senor  Capitan,'  remarked 
the  lieutenant,  after  examining  the  tree 
which. he  used  as  a  target.' 

'  Si ;  and  every  one  of  them  would  have 
brought  a  man  to  the  ground !  By  all  the 
Saints,  I'm  quite  in  love  with  this  wonderful 
weapon !' 

'  Well,  capitan,'  said  Juliano,  changing 
the  subject,  *  what  disposition  hast  thou  de- 
cided to  make  of  the  prisoners  for  the  com- 
ing night  V 

1  See  that  they  be  well  secured  in  the: 
strong  rooms — let  the  guard  be  doubled — 
and  have  it  composed  of  our  most  trusty  fol- 
lowers.' 

'  But  where  shall  the  maiden  be  confined  ? 
-she  is  now  with  her  father,' 

*  Separate  them  by  all  means — they  shall 
feel  that  I  have  no  mercy  for  any  of  the  in- 
vaders' race,  male  or  female,  young  or  old.' 

'  Where  shall  she  be  placed  ?' 

f  Convey  her  to  the '  Can  ales  hesita- 
ted for  a  moment,  thoughtfully  ;  '  no,  not 
<there — ^she  shall  be  more  conveniently  bes-' 


towed.  '  Ah  !  I  have  it ;  let  her  be  con- 
veyed to  the.  small  chamber  which  leads  from 
mine.  I  will,  myself,  honor  this  fairy  crea- 
ture by  being  her  watchful  sentinel  for  one 
night  at  least.  I'll  be  responsible,  good 
lieutenant,  that  she  shall  be  found  there  in 
the  morning !' 

Don  Juliano  perfectly  comprehended  his 
chieftain's  motive;  for  there  was  more  to 
be  learned  from  the  peculiar  manner  in 
which  he  gave  his  directions,  and  in  the  ex- 
pression of  his  face,  than  in  the  language  he 
had  uttered. 

•'  Thy  wishes  shall  be  obeyed,'  replied  the 
lieutenant ;  and  he  left  his  master  to  medi- 
tate farther  upon  the  plan  he  had  so  readily 
conceived  to  carry  into  effect  his  base  in- 
tent. 

The  discharge  of  the  revolver  ia  the  hands 
of  the  Ranchero  Chief,  and  consequent 
death  of  one  of  his  band,  had  called  around 
the  dying  man  nearly  all  the  persons  on  the 
premises  ;  and  among  the  crowd  the  Senori- 
ta  Espindola,  who  perhaps  deplored  the  in- 
human act  more  than  any  of  the  comrades 
of  the  unfortunate  man.  Perceiving  Cana- 
les  and  Juliano  in  conversation,  she  tarried 
among  the  throng  until  the  body  had  been 
borne  away,  determining,  if  possible,  to  sat- 
isfy her  curiosity  as  to  the  import  of  this  ap- 
parently private  interview.  Accordingly  she 
slipped  behind  a  hedge  near  by,  and  tripping 
cautiously  along  for  a  few  yards,  she  found 
herself  within  the  sound  of  their  .voices,  and 
the  hedge  intervening,  screened  her  person 
entirely  from  the  two  officers,  whose  move- 
ments, from  an  intuitive  sense  of  duty  which 
she  could  hardly  have  explained,  she  was 
extremely  anxious  to  understand.  The  con- 
cluding portion  of  their  conversation  she 
distinctly  overheard,  and  with  a  woman's 
keen  perception,  fully  realized  the  peril  in 
which  the  young  female  prisoner  was  soon 
to  be  placed. 

Elvira  remained  in  her  hiding  .place  until 
after  Juliano  had  left  his  master,  wJien  she 


44 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


crept  away  stealthily  and  gained  the  princi- 
pal mansion  unperceived.  To  devise  some 
expedient  to  thwart  the  villain's  design  her 
whole  thoughts  were  engaged.  Her  first 
plan  was  to  seek  out  Don  Juliano,  and  en- 
deavor by  entreaties  to  influence  him  not  to 
obey  the  orders  of  his  chief,  but  this  on  far- 
ther reflection  she  saw  would  be  fruitless — 
for  she  knew  him  to  be  an  artful,  hypocriti- 
cal villain ;  and  she  had  more  than  once  of- 
iended  him  by  repulsing  his  advances  ;  she 

' 


HJJ  Jbi  9f{  L 


a 


v.Iift 


•;i  -j  y  >!•:;•. 
'• 

' 

• 

T   3lil  16       OC    {K 
.».: 

ic 

:! 

i  , 


knew  also  that  he  stood  greatly  in  the  fear 
of  Canales;  and,  further  than  this,  she  saw 
that  if  she  broached  the  subject  to  him  and 
he  should  decline,  the  grand  object  would  be 
entirely  defeated,  for  extra  precaution  would 
be  taken  to  prevent  any  interference  with 
the  vile  scheme.  She  finally  resolved  to 
keep  the  discovery  she  had  made  to  herself, 
determining,  however,  to  leave  nothing  un- 
turned whereby  she  might  prevent  the  bru- 
tal outrage  in  contemplation. 


• 


. 
, 


- 


' 

sdfe  •  0oilMi9Yuo3  * 

*'«st  .v    fain- (hi 

sooa  afi-.v 

.,.  ri^  '     U  « i  J    < 

-i4 >ierf  IM  bwuifnai  Biivia  iij^ 

^toJ.  «ilui  laf  iom  dd 


•  -'-ii  lj 


'.if 


Charge  at  Buena   Vista. 


Resaca  de  la  Palma. 


Storming  of  Monterey. 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


47 


CHAPTER    VII, 


Ingenious  and  daring  Plot  of  Senorita  Espindola  to  set  free  the  American  Prisoners- 
Herjirst  Visit  to  Colonel  Granaille  and  Rosalia.  An  Interesting  Interview.  A  Re- 
markable Discovery.  Singular  Impressions  of  the  Parties.  Elvira  makes  known 
the  Intention  of  Canales.  The  Promise.  A  strange  Present  to  make  to  a  Lady. 


HE  sun  had  not  yet  set,  al- 
though its  rays  no  longer  beam- 
ed upon  the  domain  of  Senor 
Espindola,  but  the  intervening 
mountain  peaks  were  tipped 
with  golden  light,  and  the  sky  above  and 
beyond  the  Sierra  Madre  was  gorgeously 
bright.  Even  at  this  early  and  pleasant 
hour,  the  Rancheros,  with  the  exception  of 
the  guard,  had  sought  their  quarters  for  the 
night,  for  their  recent  arduous  duties  and 
a  general  carousal  in  which  they  had  indul- 
ged during  the  day,  had  well  nigh  ex- 
hausted their  energies. 

Donna  Elvira,  who  deserves  thus  far  to  be 
called  our  heroine,  rejoiced  at  this  peaceful 
state  of  things,  for  her  ready  mind  had  al- 
ready concocted  a  plot  which  she  trusted 
would  defeat  the  infamous  intent  of  Cana- 
les. Being  on  apparent  good  terms  with 
both  officers  and  soldiers,  she  was  free  to  go 
whither  she  pleased  without  being  suspect- 
ed of  treachery,  or  questioned  as  to  her  ob- 
ject, or  even  challenged  by  the  sentinels. 

The  apartment  in  which  the  Colonel  and 
daughter  were  confined  was  in  the  further- 
most of  two  or  three  low,  flat-roofed  stone 
buildings,  standing  near  together  in  the  rear 
of  the  main  one ;  yet  a  high  wall  on  either 
side  so  connected  them  that  neither  one 


could  be  entered  unless  from  out  the  princi- 
pal dwelling,  and  through  one  of  the  suite 
of  rooms  occupied  by  Canales.  At  stated 
distances  within  the  walls  sentinels  were 
posted,  one  of  whom  paced  to  and  fro  di- 
rectly in  front  of  the  door  where  the  father 
and  child  were  imprisoned.  The  remainder 
of  the  captives  were  confined  in  the  guard- 
house some  thirty  rods  in  front  of  the  main 
building,  where  also  sentinels  were  stationed. 
Elvira,  as  yet,  had  not  seen  the  female 
prisoner,  but  hearing  her  loveliness  much 
extolled,  she  resolved  to  gain  her  friendship 
if  she  failed  in  her  laudable  intentions. — 
With  this  view  she  culled  a  boquet  of  fra- 
grant and  beautiful  flowers,  and  selecting  a 
choice  lot  of  delicious  fruit  which  she  tied 
up  in  her  panuelo,  she  hurried  on  to  make 
her  first  visit  to  the  fair  prisoner.  Fortu- 
nately, Canales  was  enjoying  a  quiet  siesta 
at  the  time,  and  she  passed  through  his 
apartment  without  disturbing  him.  The  sen- 
tinel at  the  threshold  challenged  her  not, 
and  when  she  appeared  before  the  prison 
door,  she  demanded  of  the  guard  admittance 
in  the  name  of  the  Senor  Espindola.  He 
hesitated  not,  but  unlocking  the  ponderous 
door  and  throwing  it  back  upon  its  hinges, 
Elvira  entered  and  passed  on  to  an  inner 
door  which  she  opened  without  assistance, 


48 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


and  she  stood  within  the  dungeon  walls  which 
encompassed  Colonel  Granville,  and  his  ac- 
complished daughter,  Rosalia ! 

This  prison-house  presented  few  conven- 
iences ;  a  rude  table,  but  one  chair,  and  a 
pile  of  straw,  covering  one  half  of  the  stone 
floor,  were  all  the  things  of  comfort  that  it 
could  boast  of.  Without  these,  comfortless 
and  wretched  indeed  would  it  have  been. — 
The  Colonel,  almost  in  a  state  of  desponden- 
cy at  the  dread  fate  which  his  captors  had 
threatened  him,  was  seated  in  the  rude  chair 
with  one  arm  resting  upon  the  table,  while 
the  other  encompassed  the  neck  of  his  beau- 
tiful ch'.ld,  who  with  sweet  consoling  looks 
and  encouraging  words  was  striving  to  cheer 
the  sad  heart  of  her  parent. 

As  Donna  Elvira  approached  they  both 
started  up,  and  with  surprise  gazed  upon  the 
lovely  creature  who  had  so  suddenly  appear- 
ed in  their  presence.  Rosalia  advanced  to 
receive  her  greeting,  for  she  saw  that  the 
pleasant  expression  which  radiated  from  her 
brilliant  countenance,  betokened  that  she 
came  not  for  evil,  but  on  an  errand  of  love 
— to  sympathize  with  them  in  their  misfor- 
tune. If  Rosalia  was  surprised  and  pleased 
at  this  visit  from  one  of  her  own  sex — one 
so  remarkably  beautiful  as  Elvira — how  much 
more  so  was  Colonel  Granville,  to  behold 
for  once  in  his  life  a  beauty  among  the  Mex- 
icans, although  in  former  years  he  had  held 
considerable  intercourse  with  them,  while 
stationed  with  the  United  States'  troops  at 
San  Augustin,  and  also  occasional  visits  from 
them  while  at  Pensacola.  There  was  some- 
thing, however,  in  her  looks,  that  struck 
him  more  agreeably  than  the  singular  per- 
fection of  her  features — whether  it  was  that 
she  resembled  any  one  that  he  had  ever  seen 
before,  or  that  of  his  being  visited  by  her  in 
such  a  place,  or  what  it  was,  it  would  have 
been  impossible  for  him  to  have  explained. 
As  he  gazed  almost  abstractedly  upon  her, 
he  saw  an  irresistible  charm  in  the  very 
expression  of  her  eye,  which  made  him  feel 
as  if  he  could  have  clasped  her  to  his  heart ; 


not  from  any  sensual  impulse,  but  from  an 
impulse  purer,  holier ;  a  mystery  which  may 
be  divulged  hereafter. 

'  Buenos  nochcs,  Stnorita  /'  was  Elvira's 
first  salutation,  and  she  took  the  hand  of  Ro- 
salia and  pressed  it  warmly  within  her  own. 
'  See,  I  have  brought  you  this  little  bunch  of 
flowers,  and  a  little  parcel  of  fruit.' 

'  Thank  you,  thank  you,'  answered  the. 
grateful  girl.  'These  flowers  are  beautiful 
truly,  and  fragant,  and  very  rare  to  me. — 
This  fruit,  too,  faiher,  looks  delicious  ;  but 
to  whom  are  we  indebted  for  this  unexpec- 
ted favor?' 

'  Elvira  Espindola  is  my  name.' 

'  May  Heaven  please  to  place  it  in  our 
power  to  reciprocate  these  tokens  of  your 
kindness,'  said  Rosalia. 

'  Amen !'  was  the  response  of  Colonel 
Granville,  and  he  came  forward  and*  took 
the  maiden's  hand,  and  gazed  upon  her  with 
a  look  of  exceeding  interest.  '  God  will  bless 
such  as  thee,  sweet  maiden  !' 

There  was  something  winning  to  Elvira 
even  in  the  tones  of  the  Colonel's  voice, 
which  struck  a  chord  deep  in  the  heart  of 
the  fair  Mexican,  and  she  allowed  her  hand 
to  remain  clasped  within  his  while  he  spoke. 
His  manners  were  kind  and  gentle  towards 
her  ;  he  addressed  her  as  he  would  if  she 
had  been  his  own  child,  and  had  returned  to 
him  after  a  10ng  absence.  So  different  was 
he,  she  thought,  from  her  own  father,,  the 
Senor  Espindola,  that  she  wished  in  the  pu- 
rity of  her  heart  that  Heaven  had  given  her 
such  a  parent.  So  strong  was  this  feeling 
within  her,  that,  before  she  had  left  the  cell, 
she  began  to  envy  Rosalia,  gloomy  as  her 
situation  then  appeared. 

She  remained  in  conversation  with  them 
nearly  an  hour,  and  so  g/eat  was  the  inter- 
est which  she  made  manifest  in  behalf  of  the 
prisoners,  that  she  was  not  aware  how  swiftly 
those  precious  moments  flew  by,  and  had 
caused  her  almost  to  forget  the  most  impor- 
tant part  of  her  errand. 

'  I  have  something  to  tell  you,  ere  I  go, 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


49 


which  grieves  me  much,'  at  length  said  El- 
vira, as  the  tears  started  into  her  eyes. 

'  Pray,  what  can  it  be  ?'  ejaculated  Colonel 
Grariville,  noticing  her  deep  concern. 

'  Your  chief  captor  has  given  orders  for 
your  separation ;  and  this  very  night  it  is  to 
be  accomplished.' 

*  Separated  V  repeated  the  parent.  '  Take 
the  father  from  the  child  V 

'  The  order  is  that  you  be  separated,'  re- 
plied Elvira. 

'  Oh,  no,  no'.'  shrieked  Rosalia,  franticly, 
as  she  threw  her  arms  about  her  father's 
neck.  *  They  shall  not  separate  us — they 
cannot — they  are  not  so  cruel  as  to  deal  with 
us  thus  inhumanly.' 

'  Would  to  Heaven  that  it  might  be  avert- 
ed/said  Elvira]  'but  that  now  seems  im- 
possible. If  you  will  be  advised  by  a  simple 
maiden,  submit  without  a  murmur,  and  ere 
another  day  has  passed  you  will,  perchance, 
not  only  be  re-united,  but  free  from  the  pow- 
er of  the  unscrupulous  Ranchero  Chieftain.' 
'  Oh,  no,  dear  father,'  said  Rosalia,  more 
calmly  ;  '  we  must  not  be  separated — even 
for  an  hour — any  fate  were  better  far  than 
this.' 

'  I  fear,  my  child,  it  will  be  useless  to  re- 
monstrate,' replied  the  Colonel ;  '  you  forget 
that  we  are  not  prisoners  to  a  chief  who  re- 
gards the  usages  which  govern  civilized  na- 
tions in  times  of  war.  You  have  become  the 
desponding  one  now,  my  child — cheer  up — 
let  the  counsel  of  this  gentle  maiden  govern 
oar  actions  in  this  matter — methinks  I  reac 
hope  in  her  very  looks.' 

'  Perhaps — oh  no — I  cannot  suspect  for 
a  moment  one  whose  countenance  so  strong- 
ly bears  the  impress  of  truthfulness,'  saic 
Rosalia  in  low  tones.  '  If  such  a  being  as 
she  can  deceive  and  betray,  and  wear  at  the 
same  time  such  an  expression  of  innocence 
then  moral  goodness  is  lost  to  the  world. — 
Yes,  dear  father,  let  us  be  guided  by  her.' 

'I  marvel  not  that  you  should  suspect  me, 
remarked  Elvira ;  for  I  know  the  treacher 
o\is  reputation  my  countrymen  bear  among 


;  but  believe  me,  ye  are  not  the  first 
Americans    who  have    been   befriended  by 
Elvira  Espindola.     It  was  scarce  two  days 
ince  when  she  saved  the  lives  of  two  as  gal- 
ant  cavaliers   as  ever  drew  swords.     They 
were  from  your  own  land,  and  one  of  them 
n  token  of  his  gratitude,  I  allowed  to  place 
his  chain  around  my  neck  ;  and  by  gazing 
upon  this  little  picture  attached  thereto,  it 
will  strengthen  your  confidence   in   rny  sin- 
cerity.    The  fairest  of  Mexico's  daughters 
>ossess  not  such  a  beautiful  complexion  as 
does  this  semblance  of  a  fair  American.1 
Rosalia  held  the  miniature  in  iier  hand  for 
few  moments,   when  she  exclaimed  with 
deep  concern, 

'  Good  Heavens  !  it  bears  the  likeness  of 
my  dear  friend,  Alice  Allston,  Lieut.  Henry 
Allston's  sister  !  Look,  father !  see  you  not 
the  remarkable  resemblance  T 

Colonel  Granville,  at  the  first  glance  upon 
the  miniature,  was  equally  startled  at  the 
mysterious  discovery. 

'  Said  you  that  you  saved  his  life?'  asked 
he. 

'  I  did.' 

'  And  another  officer  ?' 
'  True.' 

1  Of  what  rank  f 

'  That  of  captain,  so  far  as  I  can  judge.' 
'  And  how  V 

1  From  the  envenomed  lances  of  the  Ran- 
cheros.' 

'  Can  this  be  possible  ?'  queried  the  Colo- 
nel to  himself. 

'  It  is  possible,'  said  Elvira,  hearing  his 
words,  and  perceiving  a  shadow  of  doubt 
and  wonder  in  the  expression  of  his  counte- 
nance. '  I  will  explain.  They  were  both 

wounded  by  the  poisoned  lances ' 

'  Wounded,  did  you  say  ?  and  by  poison- 
ed lances  ?'  ejaculated  Rosalia,  interrupting 
her  speech ;  and  the  color  forsook  her  cheeks, 
and  her  lips  quivered  as  she  turned  away  to 
hide  the  sudden  emotion  which  this  an- 
nouncement had  caused. 
Elvira  continued. 


50 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


' —  And  before  the  venom  could  perform 
its  deadly  work  I  applied  an  antidote  to  their 
wounds.' 

'Are  they  are  now  quite  well?'  questioned 
Rosalia,  somewhat  relieved  from  her  start- 
ling fears. 

1  So  I  left  them.1 

'  Where  did  the  conflict  take  place  ?'  ask- 
ed Granville. 

'  On  the  plain  beyond  the  ravine — but  a 
short  distance  from  this  place.' 

1  And  where  are  these  officers  now?' 

'  Probably  with  the  main  body  of  the 
American  army,  which,  it  is  reported,  are 
even  now  before  the  city  of  Monterey.' 

The  promptness  with  which  these  enquir- 
ies were  answered,  left  no  room  for  doubt  in 
the  mind  of  Colonel  Granville.  He  felt  and 
believed  all  was  true. 

The  earnest  ejaculation  and  deep  ccncern 
of  Rosalia  at  the  strange  intelligence,  did 
not  escape  the  keen  observation  of  her  par- 
ent. He  read  in  her  looks  a  matter  which 
deeply  interested  him — something  which  he 
had  hoped  for,  but  had  not  anticipated  that 
it  was  yet  even  in  its  budding.' 

'  Thanks,  gentle  maiden,'  said  Granville, 
after  a  brief  pause,  '  for  this  important  in- 
formation, and  for  the  invaluable  services 


and  for  your  manifestations  of  kindness  to- 
wards us.  A  nation's  gratitude  is  your  due  ; 
and  may  Heaven  grant  an  old  soldier  per- 
mission to  give  proofs  of  his  gratitude.  We 
now  place  the  most  implicit  confidence  in 
you,  and  whatever  you  suggest  our  duty  will 
be  to  act  in  compliance.' 

'  My  prayer  is  now  that  I  may  have  it  in 
my  power  to  show  that  this  confidence  is  not 
misplaced,'  answered  Elvira.  '  Again,  I 
repeat  submit  to  the  cruel  separation  in  con- 
templation without  a  murmur  ;  and  in  case 
of  any  failure  of  my  endeavors  in  your  be- 
half, when  you  have  been  made  to  part  from 
your  parent,'  she  continued  to  Rosalia,  *  you 
may  find  a  friend  in  this!'  and  she  took  from 
her  bosom  a  small  silver  hiked  stilletto,  and 
placed  it  in  the  hand  of  the  fair  captive,  and 


resumed — '  An   instrument 
coming  a  woman  to  carry, 


I    know,  unbe- 
and   one  which 


she  would  unwillingly  use,  but  I  can  con- 
ceive of  situations  and  circumstances,  when 
the  Righteous  Judge  of  the  world  would 
nerve  her  heart  and  strengthen  her  arm  to 
wield  it  with  a  deadly  power !' 

Uttering  these  words,  Elvira  bid  them 
adieu  for  a  short  time,  and  left  the  prison, 
not,  however,  without  bestowing  a  lingering 
look  of  sweetness  and  compassion  upon  those 
for  whom  she  had  conceived  so  sudden  and 


our  countrymen  have  received  at  your  hands,  so  great  an  interest. 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


51 


CHAPTER    VIII. 


The  Rancher  o  Chieftain  and  his  Lieut  cuant.  Reflections  of  the  former.  His  Infamous 
Purpose.  His  Visit  to  the  fair  Prisoner.  The  Counterplot.  New  mode  of  '  Men* 
meriting'  Sentinels.  Success  of  Elvira.  Preparations  for  Escape.  The  Release. 
Death  ofonr,  of  the  Guard.  Canales'  vile  Purpose  Defeated*  '  To  Horse!  To 
Horse!'  The  Flight.  The  Pursuit.  Rage  of  the  Ranchero  Chieftain.  Novel 
Explanations, 


WO  hours  before  midnight  the 
inhuman  mandate  of  Canales 
was  executed — Rosalia  having 
been  taken  from  her  father's 
arms  and  conveyed  to  the  room 
designated  for  her  reception,  by  Juliano, 
who,  having  locked  the  door,  gave  the  key 
to  his  chief,  who  thus  questioned  him. 

'  How  bore  this  fair  damsel  the  separa- 
tion ?' 

'  Without  a  murmur ;  or  even  expressing 
in  words  a  desire  to  remain  with  him/  was 
the  lieutenant's  reply. 

'  Indeed  !  Did  the  old  man,  her  father, 
make  no  remonstrances?' 

'  He  uttered  not  a  syllable/ 

'  Strange,'  muttered  Canales.  '  By  my 
faith,  I  ftiiuk  now  I  shall  not  make  them  du- 
ly feel  the  weight  of  my  vengeance !' 

'  When  I  told  the  father  of  the  duty  I  had 
to  perform,'  resumed  Juliano,  '  he  replied 
not,  but  exchanging  a  kiss  with  his  pretty 
daughter,  and  bidding  each  other  a  good 
night,  she  was  prepared  to  follow  me.' 

1  Thanks,  good  lieutenant ;  leave  me  now, 
and  see  that  all  the  sentinels  are  at  their 
posts.  There  is  a  need  of  a  watchful  guard 
to  night.  Should  the  barbarians  learn  that 
I  have  a  colonel  of  dragoons  in  my  power, 


and  where  our  quarters  are,  we  may  have  the 
furious  hell-hounds  down  upon  us  before 
morning.' 

Juliano  promised  to  see  that  all  was  safe, 
and  saluting  his  chief,  and  wishing  him  a 
joyous  night,  he  retired. 

Canales,  considering  all  things  safe,  he 
took  from  his  belt  a  pair  of  pistoletcs  and  a 
savage  looking  macheta,  and  laid  them  upon 
a  table,  in  the  centre  of  the  apartment,  then 
taking  off  his  military  chaquetat  he  threw 
himself  on  a  couch,  where  he  was  soon  ab- 
sorbed in  deep  thought  upon  the  recent  dis- 
astrous events  which  had  so  materially  deci- 
mated his  force.  His  hatred  to  the  '  barba- 
rians, as  he  uniformly  termed  them,  knew 
no  bounds,  and  it  was  doubly  increased  by 
the  recent  mortifying  defeats  he  had  sus* 
tained,  where  he  had  so  confidently  antici- 
pated easy  victories.  He  recollected  the 
boasts  he  had  more  than  once  made  to  some 
of  the  leading  Mexican  officers,  who  winked 
at  and  even  encouraged  his  independent 
mode  of  warfare,  that  he  could  with  his  effi- 
cient and  well-organised  power  engage  a 
treble  force  of  the  enemy  with  most  certain 
success.  They  were  credulous,  too,  of  his 
vain  blustering,  for  in  truth  such  a  powerful 
looking  squadron  of  cavalry  they  had  nev- 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


er  seen  before,  composed  of  their  oivn  peo- 
ple. They  had  been  well  drilled,  were  well 
armed,  and  had  all  the  courage  a  band  of 
desperate  adventurers  could  be  supposed  to 
have.  But  the  tables  had  been  completely 
tnrned — he  had  suffered  all  that  he  had  in- 
tended his  enemy  should  suffer  ;  and  that 
which  stung  him  most  sensibly,  next  to  his 
extreme  mortification,  was  th-e  fact  of  his 
made  considerable  pecuniary  loss. 

Revenge  ! — implacable,  deadly  revenge  ! 
was  now  the  controlling  passion  of  his  heart ! 
and  his  diabolical  intent,  which  was  incited 
by  hate  more  than  by  any  other  passion,  he 
was  now  free  to  put  into  execution. 

The  innocent  and  beautiful  creature  in 
his  power  was  to  be  the  first  victim  of  his 
burning  vengeance !  His  cruel  act  with 
laughs  of  exultation  should  be  boasted  of 
even  unto  the  ears  of  her  parent !  The  aged 
officer  should  die  a  death  of  torture  by  his 
awn  hand,  after  his  first  hellish  purposes  had 
been  consmmated  ! 

Uttering  a  laugh  of  fiendish  exultation  the 
monster  arose  from  his  couch,  and  strode 
towards  the  door  of  the  apartment  which 
confined  his  fair  prisoner.  He  placed  his 
ear  at  the  key-hole — all  was  silent  as  death  ! 
Inserting  the  key  noiselessly  into  the  lock, 
and  slowly  turning  the  key,  he  opened  the 
door,  stepped  within,  "and  locked  it  upon  the 
inside  ! 

Beware,  base  man  !  Approach  not  that 
couch,  whereon  reclineth  a  being  of  inno- 
cence and  of  purity  !  Better  were  it  for 
thee  to  violate  God's  canon  against  self- 
slaughter  by  slaying  thyself,  than  to  violate 
a  still  higher  decree  of  the  Eternal  Being! 
Pause,  monster  !  The  worse  tortures  of  the 
damned  spirits  of  hell,  can  never  avenge  so 
foul  a  crime  as  thy  wicked  heart  hath  con- 
ceived, and  purposeth  to  accomplish  ! 
*  #  #  *  *  # 

For  a  time  we  draw  the  curtain  upon  this 
scene,  to  look  after  others  who  are  enacting 
conspicuous  parts  in  this  night's  business. 

The  moment  that  Juliano  had  retired  to 


his  quarters,  the  Senorita  Espindo  was 
upon  the  alert.  She  had  heard  his  injunc- 
tion of  vigilance  to  the  sentinels,  and  she 
followed  him  in  his  rounds,  soon  afterwards, 
and  repeated  to  the  guard  almost  the  words 
of  caution  the  lieutenant  had  used,  and 
promised  them  that,  in  consideration  of  the 
strictness  of  their  duty,  she  was  permitted  to 
fill  each  of  their  canteens  with  pulque  (the 
universal  intoxicating  beverage  of  the  Mex- 
icans). There  was  one  sentinel,  however, 
she  could  not  reach,  and  he  was  posted  be- 
fore the  door  of  the  prison  of  Colonel  Gran- 
ville,  and  she  did  not  dare  to  pass  through 
the  Chief's  room,  thinking  he  might  ques- 
tion her,  and  there  was  no  other  way  of 
communicating  with  him. 

Suspecting  naught  of  her  bold  intent,  but 
on  the  contrary  the  sentinels  were  all  exceed- 
ingly delighted  at  the  prospect  of  having 
some  of  their  much  loved  pulque  to  stimu- 
late them  while  walking  their  lonely  rounds. 
Soon  she  re-appeared  to  each  one  of  the  sen- 
try, and  poured  a  generous  quantity  of  th* 
Mexican  ardent  into  their  canteens ;  and  her 
eyes  glistened  with  a  peculiar  satisfaction,  as 
she  beheld  each  and  all  of  them  swallow 
with  avidity  the  intoxcating  draught. 

Half  an  hour  elapsed,  and  she  again  vis- 
ited each  sentinel's  post — but  not  one  was 
stirring  ! — all  were  lying  prostrate  upon  the 
earth  ! — and  in  a  sleep  so  profound,  that  the 
thundering  of  heavy  artillery  in  their  ears 

would  scarcely  have    disturbed  them  ! — for 
*  i 

they  had  not  only  partaken  freely  of  the  put- 
que,  but  a  more  potent  potion  with  it,  of  a 
greater  somnific  tendency  !  Their  cscopetas 
were  lying  by  their  sides — the  heroic  maiden 
gathered  them  up,  and  conveyed  them  toth* 
prison  in  which  the  Americans,  who  wec« 
captured  with  Colonel  Granville,  were  con- 
fined. From  the  belt  of  the  unconscious  sen- 
tinel who  guarded  the  door  of  the  prison  she 
took  the  key,  and  entering  among  the  cap- 
tives soon  aroused  them,  and  placed  an  esco- 
peta  in  each  of  their  hands. 

The  Americans,  it  may  well  be  supposed, 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


53 


were  as  much  astonished  as  delighted,  to  se 
in  their  deliverer  a  beautiful   female,   an< 
that  female  a  Mexican.     She  told  them  o 
the  danger  in  which  the   fair  maiden  cap 
tive  stood,  and  explained  as  well  as  she  coult 
the  motives  that  impelled   her  to  set  them 
free.     She  also  told  them  of  the  mariner  ii 
which  she  had  rendered  the  sentinels  harm 
less  for  the  present  at  least.     She  then   bad 
them  follow  her  with   a  cautious  step,  am 
she  guided   them  towards  a  long  low  shec 
where  the  Rancheros  horses  were  ready  s 
died  and  bridled  in  case   of  a  night  attack 
upon   their  quarters.      The  fleetest  steed: 
were  pointed  out  by  Elvira;   and  she  direct 
ed  them  to  be  led  to  a  small  clump  of  trees 
which    stood    about   half  way   between  the 
guard-house  and  the  entrance  to  the   forest 
To  the  branches  of  the  trees  she  orderec 
the  horses  to  be  tied,  and  then  led  the  pris- 
oners back  to  the  guard-house.     Here  she 
bade  them  await  until  a  preconcerted  signa 
for  them  to  appear  should  be  given,  and  im- 
parting other  minor  di/ections,  which  they 
promised  implicitly  to  follow,  she  left  them 
and  proceeded  as  quickly  as  possible  towards 
the  quarters  of  Canales.     Listening  at  the 
door  of  his  apartment  she  heard  his  footsteps 
pacing  to  and   fro;  presently  all  was  still, 
and  she  pushed  the  doer  ajar  just  at  the  mo- 
ment that  he  passed  into  the  adjoining  room. 
She  tarried  not  for  a  moment  big  tripped 
lightly  and  cautiously   across   the  floor,  and 
by  the  range  of  small   buildings  until  she 
encountered  the  only  sentinel  on   the  ranch 
whom  she  had  not  regaled  with  the  drugged 
pulque.     As  soon  as   he  saw  her,  he  gave 
the  challenge — 
'  Quien  vive  /' 

'  Amiga  !'  replied  the  Senorita,  putting  a 
bold  face  upon  the  matter ;  '  I  have  a  mes- 
sage to  convey  from  the  young  maiden  cap- 
tive to  her  father.' 

'  You  cannot  pass  at  this  hour.' 

*  Why  this  unusual  precaution?' 

*  Because  my  orders  were  more  impera- 

3 


tive  and  stricter  than  usual — the  lieutenant 
said,  let  no  one  pass  !' 

'  Who  dares  prevent  my  passing  when  and 
where  I  please  upon  my  father's  premises  ?' 
demanded  the  Senorita  with  increased  assur- 
ance? '  Shall  I  call  your  Chief?  Have  I 
not  just  passed  his  quarters  ?  You  forget 
that  by  this  permission  he  sanctions  my  com- 
ing hither?  But  you  shall  learn  my  privi- 
lege ;'  and  she  turned  as  if  to  go  to  Canales' 
quarters. 

*  Bastantamente  !  pasar  /'  cried  the  sen- 
tinel, knowing  his  chieftain's  antipathy  to 
being  disturbed. 

At  this  acquiescence  Elvira  again  turned, 
and  the  duped  soldier  unlocked  the  prison 
door,  and  she  entered  once  more  into  the 
presence  of  Colonel  Granville.     In  whisper- 
ing tones  she  hurriedly  related  to  him  all  that 
had  been  done,  and  giving  him  a  pistolete, 
which  she  had  concealed  beneath  her  trcna, 
(scarf) — told  him  of  the  sentinel  before  the 
door,  as  the  only  probable  obstacle  he  would 
lave  to  encounter  before  he  could  rejoin  his 
companions.     She  bade  him  follow  her  until 
iear  the  threshold,  where  she  told   him  to 
await  until  she  could  contrive  an  opportuni-    ' 
y  for  him  to  escape.     She  stepped  out  and 
ust  passed  the  sentinel,  when   she   engaged 
him  in  conversation,  having  by  this  means 
jot  him   in  a  position   between  herself  and 
he  door,  where  the  prisoner  stood  watching 
icr  cunning  stratagem,  the  back  of  the  sen- 
inel  being  towards  him.     The  moment  that 
Elvira  turned  upon  them,  was  the  signal  for 
he  Colonel  to  make  a  desperate  effort  for  his 
reedom  !     Ere  the  guard  had  time  to  right 
bout  for  the  purpose  of  securing  the  door, 
is   prisoner   had   pounced  upon   him,   and 
rostrated  him  backwards  upon  the  ground-! 
le  then  seized  him  by  the  throat,  presented 
pistol  at  his  head,  commanding  him   to  be 
uiet,  or  he  would  blow  out  his  brains  ! 

This  unexpected  overthrow  had  well  nigh 
ereft  the  poor  sentinel  of  his  wits — and  iV'  tii 
vas  some  moments  before  he  could  promise 
bedience.     The  Colonel  relaxed  his   hold, 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


allowed  him  to  get  up,  and  led  him  towards 
the  door  of  the  prison,  into  which  he  intend- 
ed to  thrust  him ;  but  the  treacherous  Mex- 
ican, considering  such  promises  under  the 
peculiar  circumstances  of  the  case  not  worth 
abiding  by,  with  his  left  hand  suddenly  drew 
a  macheta  from  its  sheath,  and  had  raised  it 
to  plunge  into  his  antagonist's  breast,  when 
the  colonel  adroitly  seized  his  clasped  hand, 
turned  it,  and  when  the  blow  descended  the 
steel  pierced  the  heart  of  the  Mexican,  and 
he  fell  a  bloody  corpse !  Dragging  the 
body  across  the  prison  threshold,  he  made 
fast  the  door,  and  in  a  few  moments  after- 
ward he  had  rejoined  his  fair  liberator,  and 
was  conducted  by  her  to  his  released  com- 
panions, who  welcomed  him  with  subdued 
but  joyous  exclamations.  All  of  whi>ch  was 
performed  in  a  much  shorter  space  of  time 
than  we  have  occupied  in  relating  it. 

Meanwhile  another  scene  was  being  en- 
acted on  the  premises  of  Senor  Espiadola. 
Having  left  the  fair  Rosalia  Granville  in 
rather  a  critical  situation  we  must  again  lift 
the  curtain,  and  watch  the  progress  of  the 
monster  who  had  invaded  the  place  of  her 
repose.  The  moment  that  she  saw  the  in- 
human wretch  approach,  she  arose  suddenly 
from  a  reclining  posture,  and  with  a  courage 
she  was  not  aware  of  possessing,  she  de- 
manded of  the  intruder,  in  firm  tones,  his 
errand  there. 

'  Do  net  trouble  thyself  to  rise,  fair  mai- 
den,'  said  Canales,  in  the  softest  tones  his 
rugged  voice  could  make  use  of  ;  '  although 
thou  art  the  captive  of  the  famed  Ranchero 
Chieftain,  yet  he  would  behave  towards  thee 
with  all  due  tenderness;  therefore,  my  pret- 
ty one  salute  me  with  a  kiss.' 

'  Approach  me  not,  wretch  !'  said  Rosalia, 
still  undaunted, 

'  I  cannot  allow  thee  to  use  such  harsh 
terms  to  my  face,  when  I  could  not  find  it 
in  my  heart  to  speak  so  ill  of  thee ;  there- 
fore if  thou  art  too  modest  to  bestow  the 
first  kiss  upon  thy  lover,  he  will  upon  those 


sweet  lips  impress  the  first  token  of  that  af^ 
fection,  which  must  exist  between  us,  him- 
self; pardon  the  liberty,  but — •'  and  the  vil-* 
lain,  without  finishing  the  sentence,  ventured 
yet  nearer  Rosalia,  who  receded  not  a  single 
step,  but  with  a  determined  and  resolute  ex- 
pression gazed  upon  the  monster. 

'  Oh,  I  prithee  do  not  look  so  fiercely,'  he 
added  ;  a  countenance  so  surpassingly  love 
ly  as  thine  should  be  all  sweetness  when  in 
presence  of  thy  adorer.' 

Another  moment  transpired  and  he  was 
beside  her,  and  was  on  the  point  of  throwing 
his  brutal  arms  about  her  neck,  when  she 
stepped  back  a  pace — a  poniard  of  steel 
held  firmly  in  her  right  hand  glistened  above 
her  head  ! — she  was  about  to  strike  it  to  the 
heart  of  the  infamous  man  !  but  the  sudderr 
noise  of  many  footsteps  in  the  adjoining 
apartment  arrested  her  arm,  and  caused  the 
wretch  to  start  back  in  terror  !  He  heard 
their  voices,  and  at  once  recognized  thafr 
they  spoke  the  language  of  his  enemies — 
heavy  blows  upon  the  door  which  was  the 
only  barrier  between  them  added  to  his  con -- 
fusion  and  alarm  ! 

*  Hell  and  furiesl'  he  exclaimed;  'what 
can  be  the  meaning  of  this  ?  Ah !  I  am  be- 
trayed !  Treason  !  Guards,  ho  !  But  there 
is  one  way  of  escape  left  I  Canales  is  yet 
free!' 

Uttering  these  and  similar  exclamation* 
he  sprang  towards  the  opposite  part  of  the 
room,  and  pushing  one  side  a  heavy  oaken 
chest,  he  lifted  a  trap,  and  quickly  disap- 
peared through  the  floor ! 

The  trap  had  scarcely  fallen  above  his 
head,  when  the  liberated  Americans  burst 
into  the  room,  and  Colonel  Granville  and 
his  beloved  daughter  met  once  more  in  fond 
embrace  !  She  quickly  pointed  out  the  way 
by  which  Canales  had  effected  his  escape. 
One  moment  sooner  in  the  movements  of 
his  enemy  and  he  would  have  been  bearded 
in  his  own  den  !  On  trying  to  lift  the  trap 
they  found  that  he  had  taken  the  wise  pre- 
caution to  make  it  fast  on  the  under  side. 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


55 


'  To  horse  !  to  horse  !'  was  the  first  order 
of  Colonel  Granville,  and  taking  Rosalia  by 
the  hand,  they  fled  from  the  house  toward 
the  clump  of  trees  which  concealed  the 
requisite  number  ot  fleet  steeds  !  But  a  few 
moments  time  had  elapsed  when  all  of  the 
Americans  were  firmly  seated  in  Mexican 
saddles,  and  dashing  off  at  full  gallop  toward 
the  forest! 

Meanwhile,  however,  the  alarmed  Ran- 
cheros  had  not  been  idle,  for  the  Americans 
had  hardly  issued  from  the  quarters  of  Ca- 
aales,  when  the  voice  of  that  chieftain  was 
heard  arousing  his  men  in  thunder  tones. — 
Quickly  all  but  the  unconscious  and  pros- 
trate sentinels  obeyed  his  calf — the  bugle 
sounded  an  alarm,  and  many  of  the  Ran- 
cheros  were  soon  in  the  saddle,  and  led  by 
Canales  galloped  off  in  pursuit  of  the  flying 
fugitives;  but  the  latter  had  got  the  start 
and  the  advantage  of  fleeter  steeds,  and  just 
as  they  entered  the  forest  a  shower  of  esco- 
peta  balls  from  the  pursuers  fell  harmlessly 
in  their  rear.  Fortunately,  the  Americans 
had  taken  the  only  wide  path  through  the 
wood,  and  soon  they  sped  across  the  plain  be- 
yond and  into  the  main  road  leading  direct 
to  the  city  of  Monterey.  Canales  soon  saw 
that  to  continue  the  pursuit  would  be  use- 
less, for  with  their  present  speed  the  fugi- 
tives would  reach  the  main  army  of  the 
Americans,  which  was  already  encamped  be- 
force  the  battlements  of  the  doomed  city  ! 
.  Canaies  returned  to  the  ranch,  foaming 
and  fretting  like  a  chafed  tiger  !  His  anger 
knew  no  bounds,  and  before  his  assembled 
fore,  and  by  the  light  of  torches,  he  com- 
menced an  investigation  of  the  causes  which 
had  led  to  such  disastrous  results.  The  still 
unconscious  sentinels  were  brought  and  laid 
upon  the  ground  before  him,  and  yet  the  re- 
moval disturbed  them  not,  for  they  slept  on 
as  soundly  and  snored  as  lustily  as  ever  they 
did  in  their  lives  I  Canales,  on  beholding 
those,  whom  he  supposed  his  most  trusty  fol- 
lowers, in  such  a  situation,  was  astonished 
beyond  measure  !  In  his  rage,  he  cruelly 


ordered  their  head  to  be  chopped  off  while 
in  their  slumbers  !  as  a  most  fearful  warning 
to  those  who  might  thereafter  be  found  asleep 
while  performing  guard  duty  ! 

The  dreadful  mandate  was  about  to  be 
executed — heavy  machetas  already  were  in 
the  hands  of  the  executioners  !  when  Elvira 
suddenly  made  her  appearance,  and  knelt 
before  the  cruel  chieftain,  to  whom,  with 
tears  of  compassion  streaming  from  her  elo- 
quent eyes,  she  plead  for  the  lives  of  the 
condemned  !  She  suggested  to  him  the  rea- 
sonable probability  that  some  cause  beyond 
their  control  had  produced  this  profound 
and  seemingly  unnatural  sleep  1  Perhaps, 
plead  she,  they  have  been  drugged  ! — per- 
haps poisoned  ! — for  notwithstanding  all  the 
noise  and  confusion  which  the  event  had 
made,  they  still  were  wrapped  in  repose  ! 

Elvira's  suggestions  were  followed  up  by 
a  plea  from  old  Espindola,  who  declared  his 
belief  that  the  '  northern  barbarians'  abso- 
lutely possessed  the  wonderful  power  of  put- 
ting their  enemies  asleep  by  merely  looking 
at  them,  and  even  by  an  effort  of  the  will. — 
This  mysterious  power,  he  said,  the  barba- 
rians called  Mesmerism,  and  he  had  learned 
of  its  miraculous  effects  from  some  papers 
and  books,  printed  in  the  barbarian  tongue, 
and  which  Donna  Elvira,  who  understood  it, 
had  read  to  him  ! 

There  was  something  so  extraordinary  in 
all  this  that  Canales  countermanded  the  or- 
der ;  and,  in  truth,  he  was  credulous  enough 
to  put  some  confidence  in  Espindola's  ex- 
planation of  the  matter.  He  thought  it  even 
more  probable  than  the  suggestion  which  the 
Senorita  had  advanced,  for  he  had  himself 
heard  something  of  the  remarkable  power 
known  to  the  '  barbarians.'  However,  ludi- 
crous as  Espindola's  suggestion  seemed  un- 
der the  circumstances,  it  served  to  save  the 
ives  of  the  sleeping  Rancheros  ! 

Twenty-four  hours  elapsed  ere  they  awoke ! 
and  supposing  that  they  had  taken  but  a 
short  nap,  they  were  much  amazed  to  find 
themselves  assembled  together,  away  from 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


their  posts,  their  escopetas  gone,  and  the 
whole  troop  decamped,  and  gone,  whither 
they  knew  not ;  all  of  which  puzzled  their 
stupid  brains  exceedingly,  until  arousing  old 
Espindola,  the  mystery  and  all  consequent 
matters  were  explained,  particularly  that 
part  of  his  having  been  the  means  of  deter- 
ing  Canales  from  putting  into  execution  his 
order  for  their  decapitation  !  They  all  coin- 
cided with  Senor  Espindola  in  regard  to 
their  having  been  *  mesmerized,'  for  they  all 
agreed  that  they  had  never  felt  so  strangely 
on  going  to  sleep  in  all  their  lives ! 

And  what  were  the  thoughts  of  the  Seno- 
rita  Elvira  Espindola  on  reviewing  the  scenes 
of  that  eventful  night,  of  which  she  had 
been  the  sole  cause  and  the  chief  person  in 
their  execution  1  No  one  had  suspected  or 
even  dreamed  that  she  had  any  agency  in 
the  matter,  consequently  she  had  nothing  to 
fear.  One  act  which  had  been  committed 
she  exceedingly  regretted — the  death  of  the 
sentinel — but  that  was  unavoidable ;  and 
moreover  had  he  lived  he  might  have  been 
her  accuser.  And  now  it  was  all  over  she 
endeavored  to  analyze  the  motives  which 
had  impelled  her,  at  the  hazard  of  her  own 
life,  not  only  to  set  free  the  avowed  enemies 
of  her  country,  but  to  jeopardize  the  lives  of 
those  \\ho  were  in  arms  to  drive  the  northern 


invaders  from  the  soil.     Still  she  knew  that 
the   Ranchero   chieftain   and  his  followers 
were  no  better  than  a  troop  of  banditti — 
that  they  would  quite  as  readily  pillage  a 
Mexican  cathedral  of  its  sacred  ornaments, 
or  rob  the  government's  treasury  of  its  gold, 
as  to  capture  a  train   belonging  to  the  inva- 
ders !     Yet,  the  knowledge  of  this  might  in- 
duce her  again  to  act  as  she  did  after  the 
Rancheros  attack  upon  the  Light  Dragoons 
with  poisoned  lances,  but  this  alone  did  not 
seem  to  justify  her  in  her  last  great  act.  But, 
thought  she,  there  was  one  of  her  own  sex, 
an  innocent  and  beauteous  maiden,  to  pro- 
tect ;   and,  strange  though  it  may  appear, 
one  for  whom  she  had  conceived  all  the  af- 
fection that  a  sister  could  have  bestowed. — 
The  maiden's  father,  too,  she  felt  as  if  she 
could  again  hazard  much  even  for  his  sake. 
But  why,   she  could  not   answer  to  herself! 
This  mystery  it  shall  be  our  particular  care 
to  unravel  in  a  future  chapter. 

Before  Donna  Elrira  sought  repose  after 
the  escape  of  the  prisoners,  she  knelt  before 
the  little  altar  of  her  room,  and  prayed  that 
the  American  maiden  and  her  father  might 
escape  the  dread  calamities  of  the  bloody 
war  that  was  already  raging  in  more  than 
one  section  of  that  unhappy  Republic  ! 


, 
ngor 


'*dl  doi  ''^  ^ 

I  fiJi 

•jowoo 

' 

'  *5n  '-'•' 
•rroDiio  ^ 

I  ^O" 

' 
• 

!    Ml 


Ofl  V- 

•i^adoonn 

!0f  i ; ' 


<wf! 

Ol    I 

>;-.* 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


57 


rlliW 


u  n 


CHAPTER    IX. 


.(1  9fh 

•  o  Ji-i 


Suspicion  of  Senor  Espindola.  Donna  Elvira's  Ramble  in  the  Forest.  The  Deserted 
Battle  Plain.  Startling  Sounds.  Discovery  of  the  young  American  Officer.  Sym- 
pathy of  the  Senorita.  His  rapid  'Recovery,  under  the  care  of  Elvira.  She  con- 
ducts him  to  the  Casa.  A  Willing  Prisoner. 

»9* 


ORNING  dawned,  and  the 
ranch  was  again  free  from  the 
bustle  and  confusion  of  the  sev- 
eral previous  days,  the  whole 
troop  of  Rancheros  having  de- 
parted before  the  grey  light  of  morn  was 
visible  in  the  east,  in  search  of  new  adven- 
tures, leaving  the  Senor  Espindola,  Donna 
Elvira,  and  a  few  Indian  domestics,  its  sole 
occupants. 

'  Whither  art  thou  going,  my  child  V  en- 
quired Espindola,  as  Donna  Elvira  threw  a 
mantilla  over  her  shoulders,  and  adjusting 
her  veil,  as  if  for  a  morning's  visit  to  the 
village. 

1  The  morning  is  so  lovely,'  she  answered, 

and 


'  I  thought  I  would  run  to  the  forest 
gather  some  wild  flowers.' 


'  Bitn — go,  but  thee  must  not  tarry  long  ; 
for,  now  that  our  guests  have  departed,  with- 
out thy  merry  company  it  will  be  quite  dull 
and  lonely  here.' 

'  I  hope  they*  will  never  return  to  our 
home,  padre.' 

'By  San  Diego,  %  I  hope  otherwise!  the 
Rancheros  pay  me  well.  Thou  shouldst 
think  as  I  do,  Elvira  ;  thou  dost  not  remem- 
ber all  my  gold  is  for  thee.' 

*  As  I  have  said  before,  father,  they  are 
but  a  troop  of  banditti — and  their  mode  of 
warfare,  according  to  their  own  confession, 


is  but  to  pillage  ranchos,  rob  travellers,  and 
even  to  murder!  all  of  which  is  done  under 
the  false  pretext  that  they  are  battling  the 
invader  for  the  good  of  their  country.' 

'  Ah,  my  child,  thee  must  give  heed  to 
what  thy  tongue  uttereth ;  I  tyave  marked 
thy  unwonted  curiosity  of  late ;  and  I  have 
my  suspicion,  Elvira,  that  thee  wast  not  en- 
tirely ignorant  of  the  strange  events  that 
have  transpired  here;  I  shouldst  be  unwil- 
ling for  the  great  Chieftain  to  have  the 
grounds  for  suspecting  thee  that  I  have. 
Therefore,  my  child,  be  cautious  for  thy 
sake  and  for  mine.  I  know  thou  art  a  brave 
girl — a  wise  girl — and,  in  truth,  a  good  girl 
— and  knoweth  right  from  wrong ;  but  we 
must  yet  loan  the  Rancheros  our  place  for  a 
rendezvous.  Shouldst  I  refuse  my  life  were 
not  the  value  of  one  poor  maravedi.  You 
now  understandeth,  my  child — blessings  be 
ever  upon  thee — go,  and  be  merry  as  the 
birds — I  love  to  see  thee  happy — but  tarry 
not  long.' 

Uttering  these  words,  the  old  man  kissed 
the  fair  forehead  of  Elvira,  and  she  hi?d 
avray  to  the  wood,  not  altogether  for  the 
purpose  she  had  avowed,  but  to  see  if  the 
Rancheros  were  in  ambush,  ready  to  fall  up- 
on any  small  body  of  their  enemies,  who- 
might  venture  to  pass  the  Glen  of  the  Spring, 
and  that,  in  such  an  emergency,  she  might 


58 


THE     LIGHT    DRAGOON, 


be  near  by  to  render  assistance  to  those  who 
might  be  wounded  by  envenomed  lances. 

With  a  buoyant  step  she  entered  the  wooc 
and  continued  her  way  through  a  little  foot- 
path which  led  to  the  very  spot  where  Clif- 
ton's corps  of  Light  Dragoons  had  encamp- 
ed on  the  night  after  their  victory  over  the 
Rancheros.  She  had  a  lingering  hope  that 
the  Dragoons  might  still  be  encamped  there, 
but  on  reaching  the  plain  she  found  that  it 
was  completely  deserted,  and  the  only  traces 
left  of  their  having  been  there,  was  the  trod- 
den grass  and  torn  ground  where  the  battle 
raged,  and  where  the  Americans  had  bivou 
acked. 

Her  heart  was  sad,  indeed,  as  she  wander- 
ed and  lingered  around  the  spot ;  and  tears 
— she  knew  not  why — started  from  her  eyes 
and  bedewed  her  beauteous  cheeks.  It 
seemed  as  if  she  stood  on  hallowed  ground 
— there  had  been  a  charm  connected  with  it 
perfectly  inexplicable  to  her ;  but  now  all 
appeared  as  lonely  and  gloomy  as  a  church- 
yard ;  yet  she  tarried  there  as  would  a  lover 
over  the  newly  turfed  grave  of  the  fair  one 
who  had  while  a  bright  and  beautiful  being 
knitted  his  soul  to  hers. 

An  hour  passed,  of  gloom  and  sadness  to 
her  heart,  and  she  directed  her  light  step? 
towards  the  glen — but  all  was  as  lonely 
there,  and  in  the  pass  beyond,  as  on  the  de- 
serted plain.  She  then  turned  and  entered 
the  forest  by  another  path  than  that  by 
which  she  had  come,  and  with  a  heavy  heart 
bent  her  footsteps  towards  her  home.  She 
had  proceeded  but  a  short  distance  when  her 
attention  was  suddenly  arrested  by  the  dead 
body  of  a  Mexican  lying  directly  across  the 
path.  At  once  she  recognized  that  it  was 
one  of  the  Rancheros  belonging  to  Canales' 
band.  Intending  to  acquaint  the  Senor  Es- 
pindola  of  this  circumstance,  she  contin- 
ued her  way  towards  the  ranch.  Three  rods 
further  were  hardly  gained,  when  her  ears 
caught  the  sound  of  a  strange  and  dismal 
voice.  It  startled  her  considerably  at  first, 
but  thinking  that  it  might  possibly  proceed 


from  a  human  being  in  distress,  she  halted, 
and  summoning  all  the  courage  in  her  na- 
ture, she  began  cautiously  to  approach  the 
point  whence  the  strange  sound  seemed  to 
come.  She  had  scarcely  advanced  ten 
steps  when  she  beheld  at  a  short  distance 
the  form  of.  a  youth  reclining  at  the  foot  of 
the  trunk  of  a  large  tree.  His  face  was  pate 
and  haggard,  and  his  eyes  glared  with  a  fee- 
ble and  sickly  light.  The  maiden  ran  to- 
wards him,  and  it  required  not  a  second  look 
to  recognize  in  the  sufferer  the  form  and 
features  of  the  youthful  officer  with  whom 
she  had  conversed  but  two  days  previously  ! 

It  was  a  sad  sight,  even  to  a  daughter  of 
his  enemy,  to  behold  the  change  which  a  few 
hours  had  wrought  in  Henry  Allston.  He 
was,  besides  being  bruised,  half  famished — 
not  having  tasted  food  for  more  than  two 
days  ;  his  lips  were  parched  and  his  tongue 
was  dry,  for  not  a  drop  of  water  had  passed 
them  during  this  period.  The  blow  which' 
felled  him  to  the  earth  while  the  horse  was 
galloping  on  with  all  speed  had  rendered 
him  perfectly  senseless  for  twelve  hours ; 
and  on  awaking  to  consciousness  he  found 
that  it  was  with  pain  and  difficulty  that  he 
could  move  his  limbs.  With  considerable 
exertion,  however,  he  succeeded  in  dragging 
himself  from  the  thick  shrubbery  into  which 
he  had  fallen,  and  to  lie  down  at  the  foot  of 
the  tree,  where  he  supposed  he  should  yield 
up  his  latest  breath.  He  here  fell  into  a 
profound  slumber  from  which  he  did  not 
awake  for  twelve  hours  more.  When  his 
eyes  were  again  opened  they  only  beheld 
him  in  a  still  more  wretched  situation  ;  and 
he  horrible  thought  rushed  into  his  brain 
that  he  must  die  that  most  terrible  of  deaths 
—the  want  of  sustenance !  Rather  would 
have  died  on  th^t  blood-stained  field 
where  he  had  fought  his  first  battle !  and  he 
even  regretted  that  a  lovely  angel,  as  he  al- 
most deemed  her,  came  to  save  him  from  a 
death  by  poison  ! 

He  might,'perhaps,crawl  to  the  Rancheros' 
rendezvous,  but  he1  thought  a  more  certain 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


59 


if  less  horrible  death  would  await  him  there. 


No,  no — he  preferred  dying  in  that  lone  for- 


est to  trusting  himself  in  their  barbarous 
hands  1  and  he  gave  himself  up  to  despair 
and  death,  when  the  light  form  of  some 
one  flitting  by  attracted  his  attention — a  ray 
of  hope  re-kindled  within  him;  and  his  eye 
\vas  again  lighted  up,  on  hearing  the  sound. 
•  Presently,  through  the  interlaced  branches 
of  the  thick-leaved  trees,  he  caught  a  glimpse 
of  a  female  passing  with  hurried  steps.  He 
ottered  a  cry — but  it  was  a  feeble  one — he 
made  another  effort  and  succeeded  in  arrest- 
ing the  attention  of  the  strange  female — she 
turned  and  came  towards  him  ! 

Hope  and  joy  filled  his  heart  when  he  be- 
field  that  same  bright  being  approach  him 
who  had  once  before  saved  him  from  the 
jaws  of  death. 

There  was  surprise  and  joy,  too,  commin- 
gled with  grief,  manifested  on  the  counte- 
nance of  Donna  Elvira,  at  again  meeting 
the  interesting  stranger — surprised  to  find 
tiim  in  that  solitary  forest  when  she  suppos- 
ed him  far  away  among  his  comrades — grief 
to  behold  him,  who  but  so  short  a  period  pre- 
viously was  the  very  ideal  she  had  conceiv- 
ed of  one  whom  she  could  love  with  her 
whole  heart,  now  so  pale,  so  haggard,  so 
helpless ! 

In  another  moment  the  fair  girl  was  be- 
side the  hapless  youth — her  delicate  hands 
pressed  his  throbbing  temples — and  his  head 
was  pillowed  upon  her  bosom.  She  soon 
saw  that  it  was  hunger  and  thirst  more  than 
bodily  wounds,  which  had  thus  enfeebled 
and  almost  emaciated  his  features.  Leaving 
liim  for  a  moment  she  gathered  a  pile  of 
moss  and  dry  leaves  at  the  foot  of  the  tree, 
and  covering  them  with  \\erpanuclo,  formed 
a  pillow  whereon  she  laid  his  aching  head ; 
then,  telling  him  she  would  presently  return 
she  hurried  away  toward  the  ranch  with  a 
speed  on  which  she  thought  the  youth's  life 
or  death  depended. 

Unobserved  by  her  father  she  entered  the 
&ouse,  where  she  obtained  food,  water,  and 


a  bottle  of  choice  wine,  with  which  she  hied 
back  to  the  spot  where  the  American  officer 
helplessly  reclined.  The  wine  was  held  to 
his  lips  and  he  drank  of  the  life-instilling 
beverage.  This  immediately  revived  him 
from  the  partial  lethargy  in  which  he  had 
sunk.  He  now  partook  of  the  food  and  his 
gnawing  hunger  was  appeased ;  he  drank  of 
the  water  and  his  burning  thirst  was  quench- 
ed; and  she  bathed  his  feverish  brow  while 
he  ate  and  drank.  A  short  time  only  elap- 
sed and  she  had  the  heart-cheering  delight  of 
perceiving  indications  of  returning  strength 
—his  cheeks  though  yet  pale  were  not  so 
pallid  ;  his  eyes  were  no  longer  lighted  with 
a  sickly  unnatural  lustre,  but  beamed  with 
gratitude  and  affection ;  his  voice,  though 
still  feeble  had  not  that  husky,  choked  tone 
which  first  startled  her  in  the  wood,  but  with 
little  exertion  could  now  converse  with  her 
whom  he  looked  upon  with  reverence  as  his 
ministering  angel,  and  to  whom  he  once 
more  owed  his  life. 

Elvira  was  happy — very  happy — in  listen- 
ing to  his  words,  and  to  observe  that  the  pas- 
sing of  each  moment  re-invigorated  his 
mental  as  well  as  physical  faculties.  Pages 
would  it  require  to  detail  all  that  passed  be- 
tween them  in  the  comparatively  blissful 
hours  that  followed;  for  she  left  him  not 
until  the  sun  was  receding  from  the  merid- 
ian ;  yet  in  all  their  conversation  thus  far 
had  either  revealed  name,  rank,  or  any  par- 
ticulars regarding  themselves.  At  length 
the  maiden  arose  to  leave  him  and  said, 

'  When  it  is  twilight  I  will  come  again 
and  lead  you  to  a  place  of  comparative  safe- 
ty where  you  can  remain  until  you  shall  have 
gained  sufficient  strength  to  enable  you  to 
rejoin  your  companions.' 

She  sighed  deeply  as  this  last  sentence 
was  uttered. 

'  Ah,  sweet  and  benevolent  creature,  who- 
ever you  are,  tell  me  thy  name  before  you 
depart/  said  the  youthful  officer  with  affec- 
tionate earnestness.  *  Were  you  the  daugh- 
ter of  our  direst  and  most  revengeful  foe, 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


still  I  must  regard  you  ever  with  a  love  as 
warm  and  fervent  as  ever  fired  the  heart  of 
man.' 

'  Call  me  Elvira — will  not  this  suffice  ?' 
she  asked. 

'  Nay,  sweetest  Elvira,  though  I  thank 
you  even  for  that  one  word— the  name  of  her 
whom  I  shall  ever  reverence— I  must  know 
more.' 

'  I  am  but  a  simple  maiden,'  she  replied 
'  the  only  child  of  the  Senor  Espindola,  pro- 
prietor of  a  ranch  but  a  short  distance 
hence.' 

'  As  1  suspected — and  his  estate  is  the  firs 
beyond  the  forest  ?'  he  continued,  enquir- 
ingly. 

*  You  have  said  aright — but  I  have  not 
told  you  all — my  father  entertains  the  Ran- 
cheros  of  the  Poisoned  Lance  when  in  this 
vicinity — the  Chief  and  his  subordinates  have 
their  quarters  beneath  our  roof,  and  their 
followers-  pitch  their  tents  in  our  fields.  But, 
believe  me,  he  knows  not  the  extent  of  their 
wickedness  and  treachery  ;  neither  does  he 
take  any  part  in  the  war  !  His  great  desire 
appears  to  be  to  amass  wealth,  and  the  Ran- 
cheros'  gold  assists  him  greatly  to  swell  his 
alreadn  rich  coffers !  The  love  of  gold  is 
his  weakness,  and  all  that  can  be  said  against 
him.  He  is  quite  aged,  and  sometimes  I 
am  persuaded  by  his  language  and  acts,  al- 
ready in  his  years  of  second  childhood.  As 
I  before  said  I  am  his  only  child  ;  and  I 
have  never  known  mother,  sister,  or  brother. 
I  have,  I  confess,  conceived  a  perfect  hatred 
for  Canales  and  his  band  of  desperadoes  ; 
and  have  more  than  once  defeated  schemes 
of  theirs,  which  are  too  horrible  to  be  men- 
tioned, and  which  I  supposed  were  wholly 
unknown  to  the  Senor  Espindola !' 

1  Brave,  noble,  generous  hearted  girl !'  ex- 
claimed Allston  ;  '  I  thank  you  for  this  rev- 
elation ;  and  may  the  God  of  Heaven  repay 
you  for  all  your  praiseworthy  deeds.' 

c  And  now  I  would  know  your  name  ?'  said 
Elvira. 

Allston   with  pleasure  readily  complied, , 


and  on  further  questioning  revealed  to  her 
many  interesting  particulars  connected  with 
himself  and  family,  to  which  she  listened 
with  eager  attention.  The  interview  at 
length  was  brought  to  a  close,  and  once 
more  returned  home,  where  she  apologized 
for  her  long  absence  to  her  impatient  father, 
as  ingeniously  as  possible,  and  without  de- 
parting from  the  truth. 

The  few  hours  that  intervened  after  the 
maiden's  departure  and  the  twilight  seemed 
like  so  many,  days  to  Allston;  but  as  all 
spaces  of  time  have  an  ending  so  did  this  ; 
and  when  the  first  glimmer  of  a  star  in  the 
heavens  on  that  evening  was  discerned  by 
him,  it  heralded  the  approach  of  Donna  El- 
vira ;  and  had  years  of  separation  passed 
since  they  last  met,  the  re-union  could 
scarcely  have  been  a  happier  one. 

From  the  beaming  of  the  first  star  of  eve- 
ning until  all  the  lamps  of  Heaven  shone  out 
with  their  wonted  brilliancy,  seemed  a  brief 
period  indeed — for  our  incipient  lovers,  be- 
neath the  shades  of  that  forest,  tarried  until 
the  western  sky  was  no  longer  tinted  with 
the  faintest  ray  of  departing  day.     Sombre 
night  had  now  subdued  the  last  grey  shadow 
of  twilight,  and   by   the  purer  light  of  the 
stars,  the  young  invalid  subaltern,  was  gui- 
ded slowly  through  the  forest  paths  by  the 
fairest  of  Mexico's  fair.     Their  hands  were 
affectionately  clasped,  and  she   allowed  his 
arm  to  rest  gently  about  her  neck  to  support 
his    enfeebled    frame.      Occasionally    they 
stopped  that  he  might  gain  relief  from   the 
exertion.     At  length  they  reached  the  verge 
of  the  wood  at  a  point   most   contiguous  to 
Senor  Espindola's  dwelling ;  traversing  the 
plain  she  guided   him  stealthily  through  a 
grove  of  orange  and  other  fruit  trees  which 
xtended  within  a  few  yards  of  the  casa. — 
Entering  by  a  door  in  the  rear  she  conduct- 
ed him  up  a  narrow  stairway,  into  an  apart- 
ment that  had  remained  unoccupied  for  sev- 
eral  years,    and    which    she    had    rendered 
comfortable  solely  for  his  reception  during 
he  hours  she  had  left  the  agreeable  stranger 


Capture  of  a  Mexican  General. 


Landing  at  Vera  Cruz. 


* 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


63 


in  the  wood.  This  apartment  was  seldom 
entered,  except  by  Elvira,  and  could  not  be 
reached  without  first  passing  through  the 
one  occupied  by  her,  without  an  ascension 
to  the  casement  by  a  ladder  on  the  outside. 
The  key  was  always  kept  in  her  own  posses- 
sion, for  in  it  she  stored  her  wardrobe,  valu- 
ables, etc.,  and  it  was,  perhaps,  the  safest 
place  of  concealment  for  a  gentleman  under 
her  charge  about  the  premises. 

*  This  must  be  your  prison  until  health 
be  fully  restored  to  you,'  said  Elvira,  whis- 
pering, after  they  had  entered.  '  You  need 
fear  no  intrusion,  except  from  your  keeper.' 
'  I  trust  my  keeper  will  be  your  friend  ?' 
said  he,  enquiringly. 

'  Oh,  yes  ;  I  shall  perform  that  duty  my- 
self; depend  upon  it,  I  shall  not  trust  your 
safety  in  other  hands ;  but  let  me  caution 
you — be  careful  about  exposing  yourself  at 
the  casement  during  the  day.  If  the  Ran- 
cheros  return,  and  they  should,  perchance, 
discover  you  here,  your  life  might  be  the 
forfeit.' 

'  I  will  govern  myself  faithfully  by  your 
directions,  my  sweet  physician  and  gentle 
monitress,'  said  he,  pressing  her  hand  to  his 
lips;  but  rather  would  I  die  than  that  you 

should  hazard ' 

'  Fear  not  for  me/  interrupted  Elvira ; 
'  for  whatever  I  may  do  here  I  have  excuses 
ready  prepared  to  make  all  safe  so  far  as  I 
am  concerned;  I  have  remedies  for  each 
emergency  that  may  occur,  within  all  possi- 
ble bounds.  So,  my  caged  one,  do  but  what 
I  require'^nd-no  harm  will  come  to  either 

Of  US.'  BOH!  Om< 

'  Your  wishes  are  my  laws/  said  he,  as 

JWU*UJ  • 


he  gazed  with  wonder  and  delight  upon  this 
remarkable  girl. 

She  left  him  for  a  few  minutes,  and  then 
returned  bringing  him  a  delicate  but  deli- 
cious repast  of  which  he  partook  sparingly. 

Another  hour  of  happiness  they  passed  in 
each  other's  society,  when  the  last  farewell 
for  the  night  was  spoken,  and  they  separated. 

Before  Elvira  sought  repose  she  knelt  be- 
fore the  crucifix  of  her  own  boudoir,  and  ut- 
tered a  fervent  prayer  for  the  restoration  to 
health  of  him,  whom  she  had  so  providen- 
tially rescued  from  death,  and  in  whom  she 
had  become  so  warmly  interested. 

Let  us  for  a  moment  look  in  upon  the  ob- 
ject of  her  devotions — he,  too,  knelt  before 
jthe  invisible  Jehovah — thanking  Him  for 
'sending  an  angelic  being  of  this  earth  to 
save  him  from  perishing,  and  uttering  a  pe- 
tition in  her  behalf.  It  was  a  sincere  and 
1  eloquent  invocation — it  came  spontaneously 
from  the  utmost  depths  of  his  soul ! 

Upon  the  luxurious  couch  which  had  been 
so  kindly  prepared  for  him  he  stretched  his 
enervated  limbs.  Sleep — sweet,  restoring 
sleep — soon  shut  out  from  his  mind  the  tru- 
ly remarkable  situation  in  which  he  was 
placed.  Never  did  sweeter  slumbers  make 
unconscious  the  senses  of  the  youth,  for  his 
dreams  were  of  a  being  of  celestial  beauty. 
He  would  have  preferred  sleeping  on — 
sleeping  ever — than  that  such  visions  should 
be  disturbed ! 

Leaving  our  lovers  for  a  time — for  we 
must  now  in  good  earnest  call  them  so— we 
must  onward  to  more  stirring  scenes,  where 
others  of  our  characters  are  performing  con- 
spicuous parts. 


I 


64                                          THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 

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CHAPTEE    X. 

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III 

0/*  Monterey.     An  Unwritten  Incident  of  that  ever  memorable  Occasion.     Stratagem 
of   the  Light  Dragoon  to   overthrow  the.   Mexican  Lancers.       The    Chapparal.      Tht 
Concealed  Battery.  Pretended  Flight  of  the  Light  Dragoons. 
Lancers. 


Quarters. 
Monterey. 


Signal  Defeat  of  the 

Another  Skirmish  and   subsequent  Flight  of  the   Enemy.      Cliftonat    his 
Visit  from    an  Irish  Acquaintance.     News  of  Col.  Granville's  Arrival  in 


HE  storming  of  Monterey  will 
ever  be  regarded  by  historians 
of  this  era  of  the  world  as  one 
of  the  greatest  and  most  gal- 
lant achievements  of  arms  per- 
formed in  the  nineteenth  century  by  any 
nation;  and  to  find  its  parallel  they  must 
look  to  the  wonderful  exploits  of  the  same 
troops,  or  their  own  countrymen,  at  Buena 
Vista,  Cerro  Gordo,  or  at  Chapultepec. — 
Even  the  grand  army  of  Napoleon  never 
won  victories  against  such  odds;  and  these 
will  be  cited  by  future  generations  in  evi- 
dence of  the  indomitable  perseverance,  skill 
and  valor  of  the  soldiers  of  our  great  and 
glorious  republic.  The  histories  of  all  the 


On  the  second  day  of  that  ever-memora 
ble  siege,  while  the  musketry  rattled,  and  a 
hundred  pieces  of  artillery  were  thundering 
together,  a  considerable  force  of  Mexican 
cavalry  were  seen  to  sally  forth  from  the  city, 
under  cover  of  one  of  the  Mexican  batte- 
ries, and  to  ride  towards  a  squadron  of  light 
dragoons  which  had  done  good  service  dur- 
ing the  morning  by  drawing  the  fire  of  the 
enemy,  and  otherwise  supporting  the  artille- 
ry and  infantry  corps.  The  Mexicans  ap- 
proached no  nearer  than  rifle  shot  distance 
of  the  dragoons,  when  they  suddenly  wheel- 
ed and  rode  back  into  the  city. 

This  singular  movement  did  not  escape 
the  commander  of  the  dragoons,  who  was 


in  Europe  scarcely  furnishes  a  parallel !  none  other  than   our  old   friend,  Clarence 


to  the  dread  exposure  to  \vhich  our  brave 
countrymen  submitted  themselves  in  climb- 
ing the  steeps  of  the  Bishop's  Palace,  in  the 
very  face  of  Mexican  batteries;  or,  in  push- 
ing onward  through  the  streets  of  the  city 
itself,  where  breastworks  and  batteries  were 
erected  to  oppose  their  progress. 

But  we  will  not  go  over  the  details  of  that 
three  days'  siege,  which  have  been  given  by 
an  eye-witness  and  actor  in  the  scene,  more 
faithfully  and  graphically  than  it  is  within 
our  power  to  do;  but  we  have  one  or  two 
incidents  to  describe,  which  affects  some- 
what the  course  of  our  story. 


Clifton,  who,  with  his  company,  had  arrived 
most  opportunely  to  share  in  the  glory  of  the 
victory.  That  the  movement  of  the  Mexi- 
can cavalry  had  some  meaning  in  it,  touch- 
ing his  corps,  he  did  not  doubt,  for  he  judg- 
ed them,  to  all  appearances,  to  be  a  body  of 
men  with  whom  he  had  had  a  previous  ac- 
quaintance— in  truth  he  believed  them  to 
be  the  Rancheros  of  the  Poisoned  Lance, 
who  had  already  been  once  sorely  defeated 
by  his  invincible  troops.  Their  return  to] 
the  city  was,  as  he  rightly  conjectured,  be- 
cause they  also  discovered  the  indomitable 
foe  who  had  once  dealt  death  and  destruc- 


eei 


THE    LIGEIT     DRAGOON 


tion  in  their  ranks.  Canales  was  afraid  to 
make  a  second  charge  with  his  present 
force,  and  his  object  in  returning  was  to  get 
the  aid  of  other  lancers  that  he  might  com- 
pletely overwhelm  and  annihilate  the  enemy 
who  had  so  discomfited  him. 

Clifton,  too,  divined  the  object  of  his  re- 
turn, and  his  eyes  for  a  time  were  bent  upon 
the  place  where  he  re-entered  the  city. — 
Many  minutes  had  not  elapsed  when  the 
Rancheros  again  sallied  forth,  strengthen- 
ed by  two  squadrons  of  cavalry,  each  of 
which  being  superior  in  point  of  numbers 
to  the  dragoons. 

The  moment  that  Cltfton  saw  tnis  formi 
dabJe  force  approaching  him,  he  resolved 
not  to  engage  them  if  he  could  avoid  it.  He 
doubted  not  the  result,  but  he  was  satisfied 
the  conflict  must  be  a  bloody  one  and  if  he 
gained  a  victory  it  would  cost  him  dear  ! 
and  he  did  not  like  to  risk  his  brave  band 
against  such  unequal  odds.  If  by  stratagem 
he  could  defeat  them  it  were  better  than  that 
one  man  of  his  command  should  fall ! 

This  idea  quickly  suggested  to  his  mind  a 
plan.  At  the  distance  of  half  a  mile  there 
is  a  thick  chapparal,  in  which  had  been  con- 
cealed by  order  of  the  American  general-in- 
chief  a  battery  of  four  howitzers,  which  had 
been  planted  in  a  position  that  would  pre- 
vent any  reinforcements  from  entering  the 
city,  and  also  to  cut  off  the  retreat  of  any  o/ 
the  enemy's  troops  should  they  attempt  it. 
The  road  wound  round  a  part  ef  the  chap- 
paral, and  there  was  a  mule  path  running  at 
a  right  angle  with  the  road  directly  through 
it.  At  the  junction  of  the  road  and  path,  on 
each  side  of  the  latter,  were  the  points  on 
which  the  battery  was  stationed.  i 

When  the  Mexican  cavalry  had  gallctyec 
within  a  hundred  yards  and  prepared  for  a 
mighty  charge,  the  Light  Dragoons  wheeled 
off  into  sections  and  rode  off  with  all  possi- 
ble speed  down  the  road  leading  by  the  chap 
paral.  The  Mexicans  thinking  that  their 
enemies  were  attempting  to  make  their  es- 
cape followed  hotly  and  madly  in  pursuit. 


Onward  both  forces  went  in  full  gallop, 
ntil  the  front  platoon  of  the  dragoons  reach- 
d  the  mule  path,  when  they  filed  off  into 
he  chapparal.  The  Mexicans  saw  this  m'a- 
locevre,  and  thinking  it  the  simplest  thing 
n  the  world  to  turn  it  to  their  advantage, 
hey  ordered  one  squadron  of  cavalry  around 
o  the  opposite  side  of  the  thicket,  and  thus 
•ompletely  entrap  the  Americans.  But  our 
lero  had  fully  calculated  upon  this  emergen- 
cy, and  after  hurriedly  detailing  his  strata- 
gem to  the  officer  in  command  of  the  batte- 
ry, he  continued  on  the  course  of  the  path. 

The  main  body  of  the  dragoons  hurried 
on,  and  reaching  the  point  where  the  enemy 
had  filed  off,  the  order  was  given  to  follow, 
when  the  deafening  report  of  a  cannon  was 
beard  as  if  almost  in  their  midst,  followed 
by  a  shower  of  iron  hail,  which  threw  con- 
fusicn,  terror  and  death  into  their  ranks  ! — 
another  and  another  followed  in  rapid  suc- 
cession !  The  carnage  was  dreadful — al- 
though but  the  work  of  a  moment — mangled 
horses  and  riders  fell  into  heaps,  and  for 
rods  were  strewed  along  the  ground — the 
ivi  ng,  the  dead  and  the  dying  lying  promis- 
caously  together ! 

More  than  one-third  of  their  number  had 
thus  fallen — and  those  who  could  extricate 
themselves  from  this  scene  of  carnage,  were 
quickly  flying  in  the  direction  whence  they 
came ! 

Meanwhile  the  Light  Dragoons  had  not 
been  idle — they  crossed  the  cHapparal,  and 
had  no  sooner  reached  its^verge,  when  they 
beheld  the  detached  squadron  of  Lancers, 
drawn  up  in  battle  array,  ready  to  charge  in- 
to their  midst,  as  soon  as  they  should  be 
driven  from  their  covert,  by  the  main  body 
who  were  to  attack  them  in  their  rear,  not 
suspecting  the  terrible  fate  which  was  at  the 
moment  befalling  their  friends ! 

Without  exposing  his  force  beyond  the 
verge  of  the  wood,  Clifton  formed  his  men 
in  a  line  as  nearly  parallel  to  the  enemy  as 
the  thicket  would  permit,  and  ordered  them 
to  try  the  efficacy  of  their  rifles  upon  the 


66 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


opposing  ranks  !  At  the  first  fire  the  Lan- 
cers were  considerably  annoyed,  but  they 
stood  their  ground,  thinking  that  the  dra- 
goons would  speedily  be  routed  from  their 
covert.  Another  galling  fire  from  the  chap- 
paral,  and  they  were  obliged  to  wheel  about 
and  fall  back  to  a  distance  beyond  the  range 
of  the  deadly  rifle.  But  they  had  no  sooner 
shown  their  backs  to  the  dragoons,  when 
the  latter  galloped  from  the  thicket,  with 
their  rifles  already  slung,  and  naked  sabres 
in  their  hands!  The  lancers  turned  to 
"charge  upon  them,  but  they  were  already 
too  much  confused  by  the  fire  they  had  sus- 
tained from  the  rifles,  to  make  a  vigorous 
one,  and  their  lances  were  easily  turned  aside 
by  the  heavy  sabres  of  the  dragoons,  who 
met  their  charge  with  an  energy  so  deter- 
mined that  the  lancers  were  quickly  scatter- 
ed in  all  directions,  leaving  a  score  or  two 
of  their  slain  upon  the  field !  By  far  the 
greater  number  who  escaped  fled  in  the  di- 
rection the  main  body  had  taken  in  order  to 
rejoin  them.  But  what  was  their  amazement 
on  beholding  them  flying  toward  the  city, 
from  a  cause  they  had  not  yet  suspected. — 
They,  too,  joined  in  the  flight,  but  they  were 
not  destined  to  reach  the  city ;  for  before 
they  had  approached  near  enough  to  be  un- 
der cover  of  th'e  battlements  in  the  posses- 
sion of  their  friends,  their  progress  was 
checked,  by  an  onset  from  the  Light  Dra- 
goons who  dashed  in  among  them,  causing 
no  little  havoc,  and  completely  changing  the 
direction  of  their  flight! 

Still  pursued,  the  defeated  lancers  had  no 
other  course  to  pursue  than  to  dash  ahead 
by  the  concealed  battery,  where  they  had  met 
so  signal  an  overthrow.  They  were  now 
scattered  so  \\idely  apart  that  the  howitzers 
could  not  be  brought  to  bear  on  any  consid- 
erable number  at  a  time,  though  several  were 
made  to  join  their  companions  in  the  sleep 
of  death! 

Those  who  were  so  fortunate  as  to  escape 
alive  from  these  sanguinary  events  spurred 
on  their  steeds,  and  flew  away  beyond  the , 


reach  of  their  pursuers  and  the  city  they 
had  so  unwisely  left. 

This  achievement  (which  we  do  not  find 
even  alluded  to  in  the  despatches  of  the 
general-in-chief,  which  omission  we  marvel 
at)  did  not  cost  the  Americans  the  loss  of  a 
single  man,  and  few  only  received  slight  in- 
juries, while  not  one  was  wounded  seriously  ! 
The  small  detachment  of  artillerists  who 
worked  the  howitzers  had  performed  their 
part  with  wonderful  skill,  considering  they 
received  but  a  moment's  notice  from  Clifton 
of  his  hastily  conceived  plan  to  punish  the 
Rancheros,  and  those  who  had  so  readily 
joined  them  to  complete  his  overthrow  ! 

When  the  siege  was  over,  and  the  city  had 
capitulated,  and  the  Americans  had  made  it 
their  quarters,  of  course  the  chief  topics  of 
conversation  among  the  victors,  were  the  va- 
rious deeds  of  this  or  that  corps,  or  this  and 
that  officer  or  soldier,  during  the  siege,  but 
there  was  no  achievement  which  elicited 
more  wonder  and  applause,  than  the  bold 
stratagem  which  Clifton  and  his  bold  dra- 
goons had  put  into  execution  with  the  most 
signal  success.  The  artillerists  of  the  con- 
cealed battery  also  shared  in  the  praises 
which  this  remarkable  event  had  elicited. 

Thus  our  hero  was  made  and  acknowledg- 
ed a  genuine  hero!  Verily,  to  use  that  rarely 
quoted  expression,  '  Truth  is  stranger  than 
Fiction.' 



.  Jtt'l   £  '••' 

Two  days  after  the  capitulation,  Captain 
Clifton,  who  occupied  for  his  quarters,  a 
pleasant  residence  not  far  distant  from  the 
Puente  Purissima,  was  quietly  seated  to- 
wards evening  by  himself,  conning  over  the 
startling  events  which  had  so  rapidly  suc- 
ceeded each  other,  when  he  was  interrupted 
by  the  entrance  of  a  son  of  the  Emerald 
Isle,  who  from  his  dress  it  was  rather  diffi- 
cult for  the  officer  to  decide  whether  to  take 
him  for  a  soldier  or  civilian,  or  whether  he 
served  under  the  American  or  Mexican  ban- 
ner ;  for  it  was  composed  of  the  sombrero 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


67 


nd  calzeronas  of  the  latter,  and  the  jacket, 
est  and  boots  of  the  latter. 

The  moment  he  found  himself  in  thepres- 
nce  of  the  dragoon  officer,  he  snatched  oft 
he  broad-brimmed  sombrero,  commenced 
owing,  scraping  and  scratching  his  head, 
nd  said, 

'  The  top  o'  the  marning  to  yer  'onor.' 

'  My  good  fellow,  you  forget  that  it  is  eve- 
iing,'  remarked  Clifton. 

'  Faix,  then  I  am  bothered  a  bit  more,  for 
t's  always  marnin'  in  ould  Ireland  whin  the 
;un  rises,  but  things  are  oopside  doun  shure 
n  this  bog-throttin'  counthry.' 

'  But  the  sun  is  now  setting/ 

1  Oh,  be  Jabers,  thin  the  sun  rises  in  the 
vist  and  sets  in  the  aist,  shure?' 

'  No,  that  is  west,  and  this  is  east,'  said 
lifton,  pointing  in  the  two  directions. 

c  Och,  baithershin  !  thin  I  wonder  if  that's 
lot  oop,  (pointing  downward)  and  thatdoon, 
pointing  upward).  By  the  powers,  thin, 
n  this  counthry,  I  shall  be  always  wrong 
nrhin  I'm  right,  and  right  whinl'm  wrong/ 

'  Perhaps,  then,  you  are  wrong  in  making 
his  visit  here?'  questioned  Clifton. 

'  If  yer  'onor's  name  is  Captin'  Clifton, 
thin  I'm  right,  shure/ 

1  Clifton  is  my  name,'  said  the  officer, 
'  but  tell  me,  Teddy,  Phelim,  Barney,  or 
whatever  your  name  may  be  »  ' 

'  Pat,  yer  'onor/ 

'  Well,  Pat,  what  is  your  business  with 
me?' 

'  I'll  be  afther  tellin'  ye  now,  directly ; 
but  have  ye  forgotten  Pat  intirely?  By  the 
powers,  now,  I  know'd  ye,  'fore  I  clapp'd 
eyes  on  yer 'onor/ 

'  I  certainly  do  not  know  you,  and  if  ever 
I  did,  you  have  escaped  my  remembrance  al- 
together/ 

'  A  long  day  will  Pat  be  after  livin'  whin 
he  forgits  yer  'onor,  or  yer  'onor's  big  lither 
thrunk,  that  I  had  the  'onor  o'  bringing  on 
my  shoulder  from  the  Ivergreen  to  the  Col- 
onel's cottage,  and  a  mighty  heavy  one  it 
wur  to  be  shure/ 


4  True — I  remember  it  well,  but  didn't  I 
pay  you  for  it  ?' 

'  That  yer  'onor  did  like  a  thtue  gintle- 
man.' 

'  Well,  Pat,  what  brought  you  hither  !' 

'  My  legs  yer  'onor,  barrin'  a  bit  of  a 
piece  I  rode  on  a  Mexikin  jackoss.' 

'  I  mean  for  what  purpose  are  you  here  V 

I  Now  that's  a  pooty  question  to   ax  of  a 
broth  of  a  boy  like  Pat  McCrickey,  whin  iv- 
ery  mither's  son  of  the  Mc'Crickeys,  from 
Saint   Pathrick  McCrickey — for    that  wur 
the  big  saint's   name   what   killed    all    the 
snakes — down  to  his  great  grandad's  great 
grand-son — that's  me  yer  'onor- — were  bould 
waryers,  and  siventeen  of  my  ancestors  on 
mither's  side  were  killed  at  the  bloody  fight 
of  Watherloo  !     There's  a  fightin  family  for 
ye  ;  and  now,  yer  'onor,  shall  I  disgrace  the 
hlood  of  the  McCrickeys,  by  not  sakein'  a 
bit  of  a  brush  meself,  jist  by  way  of  kapein* 
up  the  sperit  of  the  family.     That's  what's 
brought  me  here,  yer  'onor  and  it's  this  blis- 
sid  marnin'  that  I've  come.' 

'  And  what  is  your  business  with  me,  Mr, 
McCrickey  ?' 

«  That's  jist  now  what  I'll  be  afther  tellin' 
yer  'onor.' 

'  Have  you  any  letters?' 

'  Not  a  letthur,  yer  honor  ;  but  I've  a  bit 
of  a  beauthiful  missage  in  my  pate,  that  I'm 
thinkin'  ye'll  be  mighty  glad  to  hear.' 

'  Well,  well,  I'm  all  impatient  to  hear  it.' 

I 1  see  ye  are,  and  I'll  till  ye  at  wunst 
without  any  more  palaver.    You  see  the  Ma- 
jor (I  mane  the  Colonel,   axin'  his  'onor's 
pardon,)  my  masther  that  is,  has  just  come 
to  this  mighty  quare  lookin'  city,  and  he 
would  be  afther  seem'  yer  'onor  at  wunst.' 

'  This  is  good  news,  indeed  !     Where  is 
he  now?'  ejaculated  Clifton.      'I  will  re*  ' 
port  to  him  immediately.' 

'  Can  you  spake  Mexikin  V  enquired  Pat, 
gravely. 

'  No,  you  numskull ;  there's  no  such  lan- 
guage ;  the  Mexicans  speak  Spanish.' 

'  Spake  Spanish,  do  they  ?'  reiterated  Pat, 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


scratching  his  red  pate.  '  Och,  be  Jabers, 
I  knew  they  walked  Spanish  sometimes,  but 
I  niver  knew  they  talked  it.' 

'Never  mind  their  language.  You  can 
guide  me  to  the  place  where  he  is  quarter- 
ed.' 

'  Quarthered  !  did  ye  say  quarthered  now  ? 
no,  be  Jabers,  the  Colonel  wasn't  quarthered 
whin  I  lift  him  !  There's  no  tillin'  how 
soon  he  may  be  quarthered  if  these  sarpint 
Mexikins  git  him.  He's  made  escape  from 
being  quarthered  wunst  already,  and  the  div- 
ils  intinded  to  quarther  me,  too.  I'll  till 
you  arl  aboot  it.  You  see 

'  Not  now,  Pat,  some  other  time  I'll  listen 
to  you  with  pleasure,'  interrupted  Clifton, 
getting  impatient.  '  Lead  the  way — I  will 
follow/ 

*  Mayhap  you'd  like  to  see  the  young  led- 
dy  ?'  suggested  Pat,  after  they  had  issued 
into  the  street. 

'  Who?  what  lady?'  enquired  Clifton. 

'  First  be  afther  tell  in'  me  the  prettiest 
flower  that  iver  blossomed  on  the  Colonel's 
estate  ?' 


J.fl 


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'  Well,'  said  the  captain,  humoring  the 
Irishman  ;  '  perhaps  it  was  a  dahlia,  a  came- 
lia  or  a  violet.' 

'  Not  a  bit  of  aither  o'  them,  yer  'oner  ; 
it  wasn't  a  Delia  nor  a  Camilla,  nor  a  Vio- 
let, but  it  was  a  Rosy,  the  swatest  flower 
in  all  the  land  barrin'  Kathleen  O'Shane, 
and  she's  in  Kilkenny,  the  darlint.  Now 
yer  oonderstands  my  manein.' 

'  And  a  very  delicate  way  you  have  of  ex- 
pressing yourself,'  remarked  Clifton. 

'Delikit?  you  may  well  say  that.  The 
McCrickey's  wur  oilers  cilibrated  for  their 
dilikicy  on  pints  touchin'  the  dare  crathurs, 
yer  'onor.' 

Clifton  was  not  at  a  loss  to  comprehend 
from  Pat's  language  that  Rosalia  Granville 
had  undertaken  the  perils  of  the  campaign, 
and  he  was  not  greatly  surprised  ;  yet  had 
he  known  less  of  the  heroic  spirit  which  an- 


imated the  soul  of  this  resolute  girl,  he  would 
have  considered  it  strange  indeed. 

A  short  walk ,  brought  our  hero  and  Pat 
to  the  mansion  which  had  been  selected  as 
the  temporary  quarters  of  Colonel  Granville 
and  his  suite. 

• 
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THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


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CHAPTER    XL 


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A  Happy  Meeting  in  Monterey*  A  Stranger  announced.  The  Monk.  A  Sudden  Trans'- 
formaiion.  Romano  Falcon  in  the  presence  of  Clifton,  Granville  and  Rosalia.  Nt.ws 
of  Zehe  Short  and  his  party  of  Rcconnaisance.  A  Ransom  demanded  for  their  Re- 
lease. The  Refusal.  Singular  bearing  of  Falcon*  His  suddtn  Departure. 

;<]  9fiJ    \\. 

you  my  dear  Clifton  to  assist  me.  Remem- 
ber— you  are  my  subordinate  now.' 

'  I  shall  be  proud  to  obey  so  experienced 
and  gallant  an  officer,'  replied  Clifton. 

'  Tut,  tut !  no  compliments  if  you  please. 
None  of  your  drawing  room  phrases  while 
we  are  on  a  campaign — plain  speech — plain 
actions,  should  ever  characterize  the  true 
soldier — a  better  understanding  exists  there- 
by.' 

*  Politeness,  father,  I  always  thought  to  be 
a  qualification  in  the  soldier,'  remarked  Ro- 
salia. 

*  True,  Rosa  ;  and  there  is  no  politeness 
so  real  as  that  which  is  couched  in  plain  lan- 
guage, and  divested  entirely  of  flattery,'  re- 
plied the  Colonel,  and  turning  to  his  friend, 
he  said,    '  you  perceive,    Clarence,  I  have 
brought  along  with  me  my   military  mentor 
in  petticoats ;  I  couldn't  persuade  the  little 
amazon  to  remain  at  home,  though  I'm  in- 
clined  to  think    that  she   more  than  once 
wished  herself  there  during  the  dangers  of 
our  journey.1 

4  In  that,  father,  you  are  certainly  mistak- 
en,' replied  Rosalia  ;  '  and  you  must  confess 
that  my  company  has  been  agreeable.' 

*  Yes,  yes,  Rosy,  except  in  those  hours  of 
peril,    when    we    were   at  a   loss   to    know 
whether  our  heads  were  our  own  or  our  in- 


indeed,  was  the  meet- 
of  Captain  Clifton  and  his  old 
friend,  Colonel  Granville,  and 
the  beautiful  Rosalia,  in  the 
^..^  captured  city  of  Monterey.— 
Even  black  Sam's  shining  visage  wore  an 
expression  of  delight,  either  because  he  saw 
the  happiness  of  his  '  massa  or  missee,'  or 
that  he  was  glad  to  see  even  a  familiar  face 
in  that  strange  country^up  I 

'  Ah,  ha  !  my  boy!'  exclaimed  the  veteran 
Colonel,  the  moment  Clarence  entered,  and 
darting  forward  to  grasp  his  hand  ;  *  glad  to 
meet  you  here  in  this  newly  acquired  city  of 
ours;  must  condole  with  you,  however,  for 
the  loss  of  a  few  of  your  brave  followers.  — 
You  have  stolen  a  march  of  me,  and,  as  I 
have  to-day  learned,  had  a  smart  brush  or 
two  with  the  enemy  before  we  could  reach 
the  city.  What  think  you  now  of  your  raw 
recruits  ?  Didn't  I  tell  you  there's  fight  in 
every  mother's  son  of  em  V 

'  A  braver  corps  was  n'ever  led  to  battle  !' 
replied  Clifton.  '  There  isn't  a  coward 
among  them  ;  not  one  of  them  could  be 
made  to  turn  his  back  upon  a  foe  unless  or- 
'dered  by  his  commander  !' 

'  I  knew  it  !  I  knew  it!  I  shall  be  rejoi- 
ced when  I  see  our  whole  battalion  organ- 
ized and  in  the  field.  I  shall  depend  upon 


70 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


fernal  enemies — the  chance  was  decidedly 
against  us.  Then,  I  would  have  laid  down  my 
life  with  pleasure,  had  you  been  safe  at  home. 
Your  presence,  then,  fairly  unmanned  me — 
I  hadn't  the  courage  of  a  goat.  By  the  way, 
Clifton,  you  have  not  heard  of  our  capture 
by  those  rascally  Rancheros  ?  If  it  had  n't 
been  for  them  I  should  have  arrived  here 
in  time  to  have  taken  a  part  in  the  siege.' 

'  You  surprise  me/  said  Clarence,  *  this 
is  the  first  intimation  I  have  had  of  it.' 

'  It  don't  matter  much,  now,  since  we  got 
off  without  a  scratch,'  resumed  the  Colonel ; 
'  but  the  facts  are  simply  these :  our  little 
escort  was  attacked  by  a  band  of  these  des- 
peradoes in  a  narrow  pass,  about  ten  miles 
from  Monterey ;  the  place  was  one  in  which 
the  rascally  robbers  had  all  the  advantage  ; 
we  couldn't  get  even  a  rifle  to  bear  upon 
them.  Consequently  we  were  made  prison- 
ers, bound  and  conveyed  to  their  quarters, 
and  there  thrust  into  a  vile  prison.  A  night 
or  two  afterwards,  singular  to  relate,  we 
made  our  escape  through  the  ingenious 
management  of  a  young,  interesting,  and 
exceedingly  lovely  Mexican  lady.' 

'  This  is  truly  wonderful !'  exclaimed  our 
hero  ;  '  and  the  attack  was  made — ' 

'  By  a  detachment  belonging  to  the  robber 
chief,  under  the  command  of  one  of  his  lieu- 
tenants,' interrupted  Granville.  '  They 
captured  our  train,  which  was  not  very  valu- 
ble,  however,  and  we,  in  return,  took  from 
him,  in  making  our  escape,  a  dozen  fleet 
California  horses,  which  will  do  you  good  to 
look  at.' 

4  The  coincidence  is  remarkable,  truly,' 
said  our  hero,  thoughtfully,  his  mind  revert- 
ing to  the  beautifnl  creature  who  had  saved 
his  life  and  the  lives  of  several  of  his  men 
from  the  poisonous  wounds  inflicted  by  the 
lancers.  '  Did  you  say  that  a  young  Mexi- 
can girl  effected  your  liberty  ?' 

1  Yes,'  answered  Granville  ;  '  and  one 
whose  countenance  has  made  so  deep  an  im- 
pression on  my  mind  that  I  have  scarcely 
c/eased  for  a  moment  to  think  of  her.' 


'  And  if  we  are  not  mistaken  in  the  ladyr 
you  have  likewise  good  cause  for  remember- 
ing her,  as  well  as  your  friend,  Lieutenant 
Allston !' 

*  Alas  !'  sighed  Clarence, '  I  fear  that  his- 
indiscretion  has  lost  him  his  life !' 

'His  life?'  ejaculated  Granville,'  'what 
mean  you?' 

'  The  gallant  fellow  left  us,  soon  after  our 
engagement  with  the  Rancheros,  and  as  I 
suspect,  in  pursuit  of  this  strange  and  an- 
gelic being.  Since  which  we  have  not  seen 
or  heard  of  him.  If  he  has  fallen  into  the 
hands  of  any  of  Canales'  desperadoes,  I  fear 
that  we  shall  never  see  him  again.' 

'  This  reminds  me  of  the  miniature  of 
Allston's  sister,  which  she  had  suspended 
from  a  chain  about  her  neck,  and  which  she 
shew  to  us  with  an  air  of  pride  and  pleas- 
ure,' said  Rosalia. 

'  Then  there  is  hope  that  he  is  safe,'  re- 
plied Clifton  ;  '  under  her  protection  I  feel 
that  I  could  trust  him  j  but  it  is  singular  if 
he  is  so  strangely  infatuated  that  he  neglects 
his  duty  by  not  reporting  himself.' 

4 1  fear  your  hopes  are  ill-grounded,'  said 
Granville ;  '  for  I  questioned  her  concerning 
the  whereabouts  of  two  young  officers,  whose 
lives  she  told  us  she  had  saved,  and  she  gave 
me  to  understand  that  they  were  with  the 
main  body  of  the  American  army  before 
Monterey.' 

'  Well,  well,  I  wili  yet  hope  for  the  best/ 
said  Clifton  ;  '  our  army  can  ill  afford  to  lose 
such  a  brave  and  gallant  officer  as  Allston- 
has  proved  himself.' 

This  conversation  was  here  interrupted  by 
the  abrupt  entrance  of  black  Sam,  who  in- 
formed  his  master  that  a  stranger  at  the  door 
desired  an  interview  with  him. 

*  What  does  he  look  like,  Sam  ?'   asked 
the  Colonel. 

'  Like  de  debbil  wid  bonnet  and  cloak  o» 
massa.' 

'  Oh,  it  must  be  one  of  the  priests  or 
monks  of  Monterey/  said  Granville,  *  you 
may  bring  him  in  Sam.' 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


71 


Enveloped  in  cassock  and  cowl,  with  his 
head  bent  as  if*  from  old  age,  and  supported 
by  a  staff,  the  stranger  was  shown  into  the 
apartment  of  our  friends,  by  black  Sam,  who 
looked  upon  him  with  an  eye  of  terror. 

Colonel  Granville  arose  to  meet  him  when 
the  pretended  monk  straitened  up,  and  sud- 
denly divesting  himself  of  the  borrowed  ha- 
biliments of  the  cloister^  and  revealed  the 
uniform  of  a  Mexican  officer.  He  was  a 
noble  looking  individual,  decidedly  hand- 
some in  features,  and  stalwart  and  dignified 
in  figure.  Granville's  hand  involuntarily 
seized  the  hilt  of  his  sword  as  he  discovered 
the  sudden  transformation. 

*  Draw  not  thy  weapon,  Senor,'  said  the 
vStranger;  '  I  assumed  this  garb  that  I  might 
pass  through  thy  city   unmolested  and  un- 
questioned ;  having  served  its  purpose  I  now 
throw  it  aside  and  appear  before  thee  in  my 
true  character.     I  have  heard  of  the   armis- 
tice that  hath  been  proclaimed,  and  have  ta- 
ken advantage  of  it  to  pay  thee  a  visit  on  a 
matter  which  somewhat  concerns  several  of 
thy  friends.5 

'  And  to  whom  am  I  indebted  for  this 
visit?* 

'  Romano  Falcon  !' 

'  Romano  Falcon  !'  repeated  CIifton>  also 
grasping  his  sword.  '  This  man  is  the  ter- 
ror of  the  whole  country  !' 

*  Be  not  so  rash,  young  man,'  said  this  nes- 
ted leader,  with  the  utmost  calmness.    'Cap- 
tain Clifton,  for  that  ir  thy  name,  if  the  des- 
cription I  have  had  of  thy  person,  does  not 
belie  thee,  my  business  will  interest  thee  as 
well  as  thy  Colonel.     If  ye  are  prepared  to 
know  its  nature,  without  suspecting  me   of 
appearing  here  on  an  assassin's  errand,  I  will 
impart  it.' 

'  Be  seated,*  said  the  Colonel,  who  was  as 
much  astonished  at  the  Chief's  coolness,  as 
he  was  at  his  exceeding  temerity  in  appear- 
ing before  him. 

The  Chief  took  the  seat  that  was  provided 
for  him,  and  drawing  a  pair  of  clumsy  pis- 
tols from  his  belt  he  laid  them  upon  the  ta- 
ble, saying — 


'  Pistols  should  never  be  worn  in  thepres- 
enc'e  of  a  lady  ;'  and,  bowing  politely  to  the 
fair  Rosalia,  thus  made  known  his  errand — 
'  I  have  told  ye,  Senors,  that  ye  are  not  un- 
known to  rare-,  although  I  have  never  had  the 
pleasure  of  seeing  either  of  thee  before.' 

'  We  certainly  have  never  met,'  said  Gran- 
ville ;  *  but  will  you  be  pleased  to  make 
known  your  business  T* 

'  To  be  brief,  then,  thirteen  men  belong- 
ing to  Captain  Clifton's  corps  are  my  prison- 
ers !'  answered  Romano. 

*  My  party  of  reconnaisance  !'  exclaimed 
Clifton,  pleased  to  hear  that  nothing  worse 
had  befallen  them. 

'These  prisoners  you  wish  to  exchange 
for  an  equal  number  of  ours  ?'  suggested 
the  Colonel.  'You  should  have  applied  to 
General  Taylor ;  I  am  but  a  colonel  serving 
under  him.' 

'  None  of  my  command  are  prisoners !' 
said  Romano,  haughtily. 

'  But  many  of  your  countrymen  ate/  pur* 
sued  Granville. 

'  That  is  no  business  of  mine,'  answered 
the  chief;  '  my  band  is  an  independent  or- 
ganization ;  we  war  for  that  which  our  coun- 
try hath  ever  denied  us*— justice,  liberty,  and 
protection !  Since  these  essentials  are  de- 
nied us,  we  deem  it  no  crime  to  war  against 
our  invaders,  independently  of  the  armie* 
of  a  pseudo  government.' 

'  What  proposal  have  you  to  make  in  re- 
gard to  your  prisoners  V  asked  Granville. 

*  They  must  be  ransomed  by  gold.' 

'  Indeed !  and  how  much  gold  will  pur- 
chase their  freedom  ?' 

'  Fifty  doubloons  for  the  officer,  and 
twenty  for  each  of  the  men.' 

*  And  is  it  by  their  request  that  this  offer 
of  a  ransom   is   made  ?'   questioned  Oran- 
ville. 

'Believe  it  not;  not  one  among  them 
would  give  ten  maravedis  to  escape  from  ray 
power  1' 

'  I  glory  in  their  courage ;  and  I  believe 
they  would  not  even  thank  their  officers  to 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


free  them  on  any  terms  with  money,'  replied 
the  colonel  with  considerable  warmth.  *  Be 
assured  the  day  is  not  far  distant,  when  we 
shall  have  a  brush  with  your  independent 
cavaliers,  as  you  style  them,  and  after  it  is 
over  you  will  sue  for  an  exchange  witH  us.'  » 

*  That  is  quite  impossible ;  for  we  never 
risk  ourselves  in  a  conflict  where  there  is  the 
remotest  probability  of  a  defeat.     This  may 
be  termed  cowardice ;  but  we  fight  not  for 
glory,  nor  for  military  advancement -' 

'  For  booty,  I  do  not  doubt,'  interrupted 
Granville. 

'  Precisely — I  was  about  to  confess  it,' 
said  Romano  with  a  smile.  *  It  appears, 
then,  that  I  have  this  time  come  on  a  fruit- 
less and  bootyless  errand.' 

*  You  judge  aright.' 

'  Wilt  make  no  offer  V 

'  Not  of  gold  ?' 

'  What  then  V 

'  We'll  agree  neither  to  hang  or  harm  any 
dozen  of  your  precious  followers  that  may 
fall  into  our  hands ;  moreover,  we'll  give 
each  one  a  day's  rations  and  set  them  at  lib- 
erty.' 

1  Thou  dost  prize  them  lightly  methinks;' 
replied  Romano  ;  '  their  lives  are  in  my 
power !' 

'And  yours  in  mine,  if  I  but  say  the  word  !' 
replied  Granville,  a  little  excited  ;  but,  I  will 
do  no  harm  to  the  man  who  voluntarily  pla- 
ces himsel  f  in  my  power/ 


hat    , 


::!l 


Romano  arose,  and  politely  bidding  our 
friends' adieu,  he  threw  over  him  his  cowl 
and  cassock,  and  made  his  exit  as  suddenly 
as  he  appeared. 

'  That's  the  most  singular  mortal  I  ever 
encountered,'  said  Granville,  as  soon  as  the 
acknowledged  robber  had  departed. 

1  His  presumption  is  quite  amusing,'  re- 
plied Clifton;  '  and  if  this  man  is  the  veri- 
table robber,  Romano  Falcon,  he  is  very  un- 
like the  descriptions  given  of  his  manners, 
person,  &c.  He  doesn't  appear  to  be  just 
the  man  for  a  cutthroat,  a  brigand,  or  'even 
a  petty  thief.' 

1  My  life  OB  it,  he  will  not  harm  our 
friends  who  are  in  his  power,'  remarked 
Granville. 

'  One  of  them,  at  least,  he  will  find  a 
match  for  him ;  I  refer  to  Zeke  Short,  my 
first  lieutenant.  His  eyes  and  ears  are  ever 
open  when  one  would  think  them  shut.  If 
he  doesn't  hit  upon  some  scheme  to  free  him- 
self and  comrades  from  this  fellow's  clutch- 
es, then  the  obstacles  are  insurmountable  to 
any  live  Yankee.' 

But  we  will  not  pursue  this  interview  far- 
ther, the  conversation  beyond  having  no 
particular  bearing  upon  the  plot  of  our  sto- 
ry. Our  friends  tarried  but  a  few  days  at 
Monterey,  the  squadron  of  Light  Dragoons 
to  which  they  were  attached  being  under  or- 
ders to  move  onward  toward  Saltillo, 

i  '•  f'f  ,  T0i)'j  ^ '.  *' 
. 

'  iwrf In 


) 


1UO3 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


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ill.'fl! 

£3q 

. 

Formation  of  Guerilla  Bands.  Santa  Anna's  cunning  Policy  revealed.  Don  Juli- 
ano's  Arrival  at  the  Ranch.  A  Hellish  Plot  against  Elvira.  His  Conspirators. 
Henry  and  Elvira.  The  Hour  for  their  Separation  is  appointed.  Interesting  Inter- 
mete.  Pledge  of  Love.  A  Narrow  Escape. 


foifis  '.l-flcfi 


»d 


CHAPTER    XII. 


•oiq  f>rf)  sliii 

O  UNEXPECTED  was  the 
fall  of  Monterey,  that  for  a 
considerable  time  subsequent 
it  almost  paralyzed  the  ener- 
gies of  the  Mexicans.  The 
soldiers  were  getting  tired  of  a  war,  in 
which  they  had  invariably  been  defeated, 
and  as  there  was  neither  glory  nor  money  to 
be  earned,  not  even  sufficient  of  the  latter 
to  make  life  sufferable,  many  of  them  desert- 
ed from  the  regular  army  for  the  purpose  of 
forming  guerilla  bands,  or  to  join  those  al- 
ready organized,  believing  that  such  a  life 
afforded  them  more  pleasures,  mo/e  luxuries 
and  more  independence,  and  far  less  liable 
to  constant  defeats. 

Consequently  many  were  the  bands  that 
were  organized,  and  most  of  the  deserters, 
as  well  as  of  the  discharged  soldiery,  whose 
terms  of  enlistment  had  expired,  availed 
themselves  of  this  course  as  a  forlorn  hope 
to  better  their  condition. 

So  numerous  and  formidable  were  these 
bands  becoming,  that  Santa  Anna,  who  had 
at  this  critical  juncture  been  unwisely  per- 
mitted to  pass  into  the  county,  resolved  not 
only  to  oppose  no  obstacle  in  the  formation 


, 

of  these  bands,  but  if  possible  turn  them  to 
his  advantage.  In  pursuance  of  this  plan 
he  secretly  communicated  with  the  various 
guerilla  chieftains,  and  promised  them  gov- 
ernment protection  if  they  would  but  gather 
their  spoils  from  the  enemy  and  from  those 
States  who  had  refused  their  quota  of  money 
and  arms  to  sustain  the  supreme  government 
of  Mexico ;  moreover,  he  solicited  them  to 
lend  a  helping  hand  to  the  regular  armies 
whenever  engaged  in  battle. 

Most  of  the  chieftains  complied  readily 
with  his  wishes ;  for  they  considered  it  but 
a  license,  not  only  to  harrass  the  enemy  at 
their  pleasure,  but  to  plunder  and  run  riot 
over  a  portion  of  their  own  territory. 

The  Ranchero  Chieftain,  Canales,  was 
among  the  first  eagerly  to  embrace  such  op- 
portunities for  a  golden  harvest  that  this 
state  of  things  would  offer,  without  running 
the  risk  of  losing  his  neck.  Accordingly,  to 
augment  his  force,  which  had  recently  ma- 
terially diminished,  he  despatched  Juliano 
from  his  new  theatre  of  action  between  Sal- 
tillo  and  San  Luis  Potosi,  to  his  old  rendez- 
vuos,  the  ranch  of  Senor  Espindola,  for  the 
purpose  of  here  making  enlistments  to  his 


troop. 


With  eight  or  ten  followers  to  assist 


74 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


him  in  drumming  up  recruits,  Juliano  arriv- 
ed at  the  ranch,  much  to  the  regret  of  the 
Senorita  Espindola,  inasmuch  as  it  might 
possibly  lead  to  the  discovery  of  her  secret 
in  regard  to  the  young  American,  who  had 
now  been  the  object  of  her  almost  constant 
attention  for  a  little  more  than  a  week. 

On  the  day  after  Don  Juliano' s  arrival  he 
commenced  laying  a  seige  to  the  heart  of  the 
fair  Elvira,  importuning  her  on  every  occa- 
sion that  he  could  speak  with  her.  Don  Ju- 
liano, as  we  have  before  hinted,  was  a  heart- 
less villain.  He  loved  Elvira  only  as  the 
professed  libettine  loves  his  mistress  ;  there 
was  another  reason  for  loving  her,  to  him  a 
more  potent  one — Elvira  was,  so  far  as  he 
could  learn,  the  sole  heiress  to  old  Espindo- 
la's  estate ;  and  he  likewise  believed  that 
the  old  man's  miserly  propensities  had  gain- 
ed him  much  gold,  which  he  surmised  must 
be  concealed  somewhere  about  the  premi- 
ses. 

Some  days  had  elapsed  before  he  could 
gain  more  than  an  opportunity  to  say  a  few 
words  with  her — indeed,  she  was  not  so  fre- 
quently seen  tripping  about  ftie  ranch  as  for- 
merly— the  reason  thereof  he  did  not  mis- 
trust, but  which  our  readers  fully  understand. 
The  Senor  Espindola,  on  enquiry,  told  him 
that  she  had  grown  suddenly  reserved  and 
even  melancholy,  and  passed  her  hours  of 
leisure  in  her  own  apartment.  The  truth  is, 
however,  she  was  at  those  periods  in  the  ad- 
joining apartment,  and  whenever  she  was 
summoned  by  her  father,  she  made  it  a  point 
not  to  make  any  answer  to  his  call  until  she 
could  regain  her  own  room. 

Each  morning,  efter  the  breakfast  hour 
was  over,  she  invariably  went  to  her  garden 
to  cull  a  boquet  of  flowers  ;  and,  instead  of 
being  placed  in  the  vase  upon  her  own  table 
as  formerly,  they  now  made  fragrant  the 
chamber  of  her  prisoner,  who  was  daily 
growing  more  dear  to  her  sight.  On  one  of 
these  occasions,  the  moment  she  entered 
the  garden,  she  was  saluted  by  Don  Juliano, 


who » with  a  pleasant  smile  thus  accosted 
her: 

'  Methinks  you  pay  unusual  attention  to- 
the  products  of  this  lovely  flower  garden, 
my  fair  Senorita.  Mexican  ladies  give  pref- 
erence to  diamonds,  rubies,  and  other  spark- 
ling gems,  over  these  frail  flowers  which 
blossom,  wither  and  perish  in  a  day.' 

'  Brilliant  and  beautiful,  truly,  are  pre- 
cious stones  from  the  lapidary's  hanJ,'  said 
Elvira,  '  but  they  only  please  the  eye.' 

'  And  what  more  can  be  said  of  the  virtue 
of  flowers?' 

1  They  impart  a  double  pleasure;  their 
fragrance,  which  cold  gems  do  not  possess, 
is  as  much  to  be  valued  as  their  unrivalled 
beauty ;  besides,  there  is  an  endless  variety 
of  flowers,  even  in  our  land,  while  the  pro- 
ducts of  all  the  mines  in  the  world,  yet  dis- 
covered, does  not  furnish  even  a  score  of  dif- 
ferent kinds  of  precious  stones.' 

*  But  consider  their  imperishable  nature.' 

*  True  ;  but  while  one  blossom   perishes 
another  is  unfolded  to  our  view ;  our  gardens 
and  forests,  in  nearly  all  seasons,  teem  with 
these  sweetest  and  most  beautiful  of  Nature's 
ornaments.     But,  I  am   wasting  time  which 
might  be  better  employed.     Adios,  Don  Ju- 
liano.' 

With  these  words  Elvira  turned  to  de- 
part. 

*  Stay  but  for  a  moment,  my  fair  one,1  en- 
treated Don  Juliano ;  '  I  have  that  to  impart 

to  thee  which  deeply  concerns  myself  and  I 
,  , 

hope 

'  But  that  which  concerns  you,'  interrupt- 
ed Elvira,  surmising  his  aim,  '  doest  not  in 
the  least  degree  affect  me.' 

'  Ah !  but  it  does  concern  thee  more  than 
thou  canst  imagine.  Elvira — I  love  thee  !' 

'  You  have  told  me  of  that  an  hundred 
times,  and  in  as  many  different  ways;  and  I 

believed  you  just  as  much  as  I  do  now  and 

, 
no  more. 

'  Wouldst  have  me  swear  to  't  ?' 

'  Oh,  no !  not  for  the  world  !    do  not  so 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


75 


profane  yourself.  Heaven  knows  you  have 
sins  enough  already  to  repent  of.' 

'  How  shall  I  convince  thee  V 

'  Do  not  attempt  it,  Senor,  for  be  assured 
it  will  avail  nothing;  it  will  be  worse  than 
useless.' 

'How  so r 

4  Because  to  be  frank — I  do  not  love  you.' 

1  Then  shall  I  strive  to  teach  thee  how  de- 
serving I  am  of  thy  affections.' 

4  But  I  will  not  listen  to  your  teaches.' 

1  Then  must  I  compel  thee  !'  replied  the 
lieutenant/  angry  at  the  rebuff  he  had  re- 
ceived. '  Remember,  I  am  all-powerful 
here !' 

*  Indeed !'  exclaimed  Elvira,  with  a  with- 
ering look  of  scorn  and  indignation  ;  '  and 
as  I  have  long  supposed,  villain  enough  to 
exercise  any  power  you  may  have  over  the 
weak  and  defenceless.  But,  beware  !  lest  a 
righteous  retribution  overwhelm  you  when 
least  expected.  The  man  who  expects  a  re- 
ciprocity of  love  by  force  is  beneath  the 
brute,  and  is  beyond  all  creatures  that  walk 
or  crawl  the  earth  the  most  to  be  dreaded 
and  despised.' 

Uttering  this  severe  rebuke  with  an  un- 
daunted look,  Elvira  turned  and  hurried 
back  to  the  casa,  leaving  the  humbled  wretch 
lo  reflect  upon  her  words,  and  to  meditate 
upon  some  scheme  of  villainy  whereby  he 
might  obtain  the  Senorita's  hand  and  her 
miserly  father's  wealth. 

'  By  all  the  powers  of  hell,  she  shall  be 
mine!'  at  length  exclaimed  the  infuriated 
lieutenant  to  himself.  *  I'm  not  so  easily 
baulked  as  this  high-spirited  damsel  imag- 
ines. I  have  trusty  followers — at  least  those 
who  will  obey  my  bidding  for  gold,  however 
villainous — and  three  leagues  hence  only 
dwells  Padre  Garcelona,  the  pretended  her- 
mit money,  with  whom  I  will  communicate 
this  very  night — he  shall  perform  the  mar- 
riage ceremony — he  has  learned  already  to 
do  my  bidding,  the  old  miserly  Jew ' 

He  was  here  interrupted  by  the  approach 
of  his  newly  appointed  recruiting  sergeant, 


whose  unscrupulous  and  desperate  character 
he  already  knew. 

*  Ah,  good  Mateo,'  resumed  the  lieutenant, 
assuming  a  complacent. look  ;  '  thou  art  ever 
prompt  in  performing  thy  duty.' 

'Si,  Senor,'  replied  the  sergeant  with  a 
respectful  air. 

*  And  been  poorly  paid  for  thy  services, 
hast  not  ?' 

'  Vcrdadero,  Senor.' 

'I  have  work  for  thee,  good  Mateo,  which 
will  give  thee  gold.' 

'  Machos  gracias,  Senor.' 

1  The  Senorita  Espindola  must  become 
the  bride  of  Don  Juliano  Rosas. 

'  81 1  Senor,'  said  Mateo,  without  evincing 
any  surprise,  or  even  shrugging  his  shoul- 
ders. 

'  For  the  consummation  of  which  she  must 
be  conveyed  to  the  hermit's  cell — old  JPadre 
Garcelona.  You  understand?' 

*  Si.' 

'  Enlist  Roberto  in  the  enterprise,  and  be- 
tween you  and  him  let  some  expedient  be 
devised  to  seize  upon  her  and  convey  her 
thither  to-morrow  night.  I  shall  visit  the 
Padre  to-day,  and  have  every  thing  arranged 
for  our  reception.' 

'  Si,  Senor.' 

'  Remember,  as  you  value  thy  life,  and  a 
good  purse  of  gold  to  make  life  tolerable, 
communicate  this  to  no  one  but  Roberto, 
whom  I  will  also  confer  with  before  I  set  out 
for  the  hermit's  cell.  I  shall  return  by  sun- 
set, and  as  soon  as  it  is  dark  go  to  yonder 
grove  where  I  will  meet  thee  to  mature  our 
mode  of  proceedure.  Remember,  nothing 
must  stand  in  the  way  that  can  mar  the  com- 
plete success  of  this  enterprise.  Should  old 
Espindola  be  any  obstacle,  you  wear  a  sharp 
machcta,  and  know  well  how  to  use  it.' 

Without  making  any  reply,  Mateo  drew 
from  his  belt  a  long  double-edged  knife,  and 
with  a  hellish  grin  signified  to  his  master 
that  his  murderous  weapon  should  not  be 
wanting  to  carry  into  execution  any  scheme 
which  he  might  propose. 


THE     LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


The  sergeant  of  few  words  turned  upon 
his  heel,  and  hastened  away  in  search  of  an- 
other assassin  by  the  name  of  Roberto  Val- 
doro,  while  Juliano  went  to  his  groom,  or- 
dered his  fleetest  steed,  which  he  mounted, 
and  rode  away  unattended. 


It  was  nearly  sunset,  on  the  day  following 
that  on  which  the  conversation  just  related 
occurred.  Henry  Allston  and  the  fair  Elvi- 
ra were  holding  sweet  converse  together  in 
the  little  apartment  where  they  had  enjoyed 
so  many  hours  of  bliss.  On  this  day  Elvi- 
ra devoted  more  time  to  him  than  on  the 
previous  days,  for  the  hours  were  now  but 
few  that  they  would  commune  together  in 
that  place.  The  night  had  arrived  during 
which  they  were  to  be  separated — perhaps 
an  eternal  separation  ! 

The  youth's  wants  had  been  so  assiduous- 
ly attended  to  by  his  lovely  physician,  that 
he  had  recovered  his  wonted  health,  and  was 
as  vigorous  in  mind  and  body  as  ever,  al- 
though his  confinement  had  worn  away  the 
brown  shades  which  previous  exposure  be- 
neath a  torrid  sun  had  imparted  to  his 
cheeks. 

At  the  next.midnight  hour  it  was  Allston's 
intention  to  set  forth  and  rejoin  his  friends 
at  Monterey;  Ibr^he  had  heard  of  the  victory 
achieved  by  his  companions  in  arms,  through 
Elvira,  who  had  gained  the  information  from 
two  or  three  soldiers,  who  had  deserted  from 
Ampudia's  retreating  legions  immediately 
after  the  capitulation.  His  honor,  his  duty, 
his  allegiance  to  his  country,  thought  Hen- 
ry, demanded  that  he  should  report  himself 
to  his  commander  without  delay,  now  that 
he  was  again  restored  to  health  and  strength : 
but  to  leave  the  kind,  the  gentle,  the  beau- 
teous creature,  for  whom  his  affections  now 
equalled  his  unbounded  gratitude,  required 
the  sacrifice  of  temporary  bliss  to  his  stern- 
er judgment. 

*  We  shall  meet  again,  dearest  Elvira/ 
said  the  youth,  as  they  sat  beside  each  oth- 
er with  clasped  hands,  while  tears,  like  dew- 


drops  upon  the  blushing  rose,  hung  upon  her 
beauteous  cheeks.  '  Dry  up  those  tears  and 
let  us  look  calmly  and  resignedly  upon  this 
inevitable  separation.  If  Heaven  spares  my 
lite,  and  gives  me  liberty,  I  will  again  seek 
you  out,  though  misfortune  should  drive  you 
far  away/ 

'  Heaven  grant  that  the  day  of  our  re-un- 
ion may  not  be  far  distant,'  she  answered, 
wiping  away  the  tears  as  they  sprung  into 
her  Darkling  eyes.  '  Believe  me,  Henry,  it 
is  not  alone  the  thoughts  of  our  separation 
so  near  at  hand,  that  makes  my  heart  so  sad, 
it  is  because  of  the  perils  which  your  brave 
spirit  will  incite  you  to  encounter  on  the 
battle  field.' 

1  Fear  not,  Elvira.  That  providential 
hand  which  has  guided  me  safely  through 
the  worst  dangers  will  be  with  me  still.  A 
long  time  may  elapse  before  we  meet  again  ; 
and  that  joyous  period  I  feel  will  surely 
come ;  but  I  tremble  lest  afterward  we  should 
again  be  separated.' 

'  Nay,  Henry,  think  not  of  that.  Say 
rather  that  this  be  our  last  meeting.  I  can 
bear  this  better  than  a  future  separation  ;  for 
then  I  shall  know  that  you  have  gone  to  a 
distant  land — too  far  distant  ever  to  return. 
Say,  that  you  will  not  forsake  me  T 

1  But,  remember  it  will  not  be  safe  for  me 

i 
to  remain  with  you  here? 

'  True,  Henry ;  but  whither  you  go  I 
would  follow,  if  you ' 

'  Ah,  my  Elvira !'  exclaimed  the  youth, 
his  countenance  beaming  with  joy ;  '  you 
have  answered  that  which  I  fain  would  have 
asked  ;  then  you  will  leave  your  country  for 
mine  T 

'  Yes,  gladly,  Henry  ;  for  I  have  learned 
already  to  love  your  country.  Its  history  I 
have  studied,  and  even  of  the  character  of  its- 
people  I  had  formed  a  tolerable  idea  before 
meeting  with  you  and  your  comrades  ;  and 
strange  though  it  may  appear,  I  have,  since 
a  child,  had  a  heartfelt  desire  to  see  your 
country  and  its  inhabitants.  But,  Henry, 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


77 


any  place  would  I  fly  to  were  I  certain  of 
your  love  and  protection.' 

'But   your  father,   Elvira — will  he  con- 
sent?' 


'I  know  not;  and  yet  I  sometimes  think 
he  cares  less  for  Mexico  than  I  do.  Wrhen 
the  proper  time  come,  I  am  sure  he  will  re 
joice  in  his  old  age  that  his  daughter  has 
found  a  protector  worthy  to  be  loved 

honored.' 

• 

'  Ah,  my  beloved  !'  replied  Allston,  '  your 
words  give  me  hope  and  happiness !  I  can 
now  leave  you  with  less  regret !  Oh,  that 
Peace — lovely  Peace — may  soon  smile  over 
this  unhappy  land  !  then  on  the  wings  of 
love  will  I  fly  hither  and  claim  thee  for  my 
bride  !' 

He  had  scarcely  given  vent  to  his  enthu- 
siastic impulses,  when  the  voice  of  Senor 
Espindola    was   heard   from    below,  calling 
loud  for  Elvira. 

^he  ran  towards  the  stair-case,  and  en- 
*luikd  of  him  his  wishes. 

<  T 

^ard  a  strange  voice,  just  now,  pro- 
eeedmfefrom  thy  apartment.  With  whom 
d°y°u  Averse,  my  child?' 

'  WitVself,  father.' 

'   \  heard  a  voice  as  of  a  stran- 
ger.' 

4  That  w 
nounce  tome 
the  invalers — 
to  utter  bme  sen 
tone  anqas  nearl 
as  in  her^ower. 

'^',1'T  V*!  thou'rt  more 

than  nalt(ankee  now ! 

turn  trails!     I  shall 
and  my  nfc  if  thou  dost. 

^  You  cLt  believe  that  a  sNle.minded 
girl  like  y4  Elvira  can  possibly  .  fe  the 
Mexican  c\e  ?'  asked  the  Senor, 

<  There' 1  telling  what  one  of      gex 
might  do ;  \  thou  'rt  a  shrewd  01. 
old  head  an^ise  one  on  voung  shou^rg 


I  was  trying  to  pro- 
words  in  imitation  of 
s  and  Elvira  proceeded 
in   as  masculine  a 


'the  prisoner's  voice 


Iittl( 


ope  thou  'It  not 
my  gold 


Ha,  ha ! — to  thy   vespers,   girl,   to  thy  ves- 
pers.' 

'  Yes,  father  ;'  and  Elvira  breathed  more 
freely  as  she  heard  his  receding  footsteps, 
approached  her  little  altar  to  do  his  bid- 
ding; and  there,  also,  to  make  confession  of 
the  deception  she  had  used  for  the  sake  of 

him  who  had  become  dearer  to  her  than  all 
,  , .  ,     . . 

the  world  beside. 

Once  more  did  Elvira  return  to  Henry — 
once  more  did  they  pledge  their  mutual  love 
and  constancy.  The  twilight  hour  had  pas- 
sed, and  as  but  few  hours  would  intervene 
when  the  loved  one  would  take  his  depart- 
ture,  she  left  him  to  seek  that  repose  which 
he  required  previous  to  setting  out  on  his 
hazardous  and  wearisome  journey. 

Meanwhile,  in  a  little  grove  not  far  distant 
from  the  casa,  three  creatures,  wearing  the 
semblance  of  humanity,  were  conspiring 
against  the  peace  and  happiness  of  that  fair 
being,  who  thus  far  has  occupied  much  space 
in  our  romantic  history. 

Don  Juliano  had  visited  the  hermit's  cell ; 
with  gold  he  had  bribed  him  to  perform  a 
ceremony,  which  heaven  nor  earth  could 
sanction.  His  coadjutors  in  crime  had  con- 
ceived and  were  prepared  to  carry  into1  exe- 
cution a  scheme  of  villainy,  which  nothing 
save  the  torments  of  the  infernal  region 
could  ever  avenge. 

1 1  predict  a  storm  ere  the  midnight  hour,' 
said  Don  Juliano,  addressing  his  compan- 
ions. 

*  So  much  the  better  for  our  enterprise,' 
replied  the  assassin,  Roberto.  '  I  like  not 
such  work  when  even  one  star  of  heaven 
can  look  upon  us.  And  if,  perchance,  any 
person  should  be  abroad,  we  should  not  be 
>bliged  to  defer  or  relinquish  an  enterprise 
which  promises  us  so  much  gold.  The  on- 
y  difficulty  I  apprehend  is  from  old  Espin- 
dola, of  \vhom  it  is  said  he  sleeps  with  one 
eye  and  one  ear  open.' 

1  Ah,  but  our  good  Mateo  has  signified 


78 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


to  me  that  he  will  be  well  provided  for.    Is  't 
not  so,  Mateo?' 

€J8i,  Senor  !'  and  he  once  more  displayed 
his  murderous  macheta. 

'  Mateo  is  a  man  of  few  words,  Roberto, 
as  you  have  doubtless  observed,'  remarked 
Juliano  ;  '  but  he  has  a  faculty  of  expressing 
more  by  a  sign  than  most  of  us  can  by  a 
score  of  words.  But  come,  my  friends,  we 
must  now  separate.  Two  hours  hence  we 


meet  again  in  this  very  spot.  Have  every 
thing  in  readiness. 

*  Never  fear  for  Mateo  and  I,'  said  Rober- 
to, when  a  well-filled  purse  of  bright  gold  is 
to  be  our  prize.' 

Mateo  grinned  an  approval  of  the  remark 
and  turned  upon  his  heel. 

Don  Juliano  now  separated  from  his  hired 
ruffians  and  returned  to  his  quarters,  where 
we  shall  leave  him  until  we  open  a  new 

chapter  of  stirring  events. 
Idilqai 

• 
• 


i 


" 


l 

. 

•!<{   I  *      ' 

Jl  tjlli&3ii- 
&$n  fl&j 
If  A  -3U  iiOij 


u  i3JB>isrt,'i"nq 
fqa  I  vHa 
ji  mod//  'i 

t 


/ 

/ 


s  r,   ar 

i-rij»iirt  •'•  '^ ' 


ifio  J 


.1     tf 


»    t 

r ! ;  - ') ! 


•     '--I; 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


79 


CHAPTER     XIII, 


A  Terrific  Storm.  Elvira's  Visit  to  the  Chamber  of  the  Sleeping  Youth.  The  Light- 
ning's Flash,  and  the  Discovery.  Cause  for  Alarm.  Alhton  is  Awakened.  The  As- 
sassins begin  their  Deadly  Work.  The  Ladder  and  the  Fatal  Fall.  Espindola  re- 
ceives a  Mortal  Wound.  Summary  Vengeance.  Rage  of  Juliano.  Elvira's  Heroism. 
Allston  comes  to  the  Rescue.  Death  of  the  Assassins.  Subsequent  Events. 


N  HOUR  before  midnight,  as 
Don  Juliano  had  predicted,  a 
storm  arose.  The  stars  which 
had  been  shining  with  undim- 
med  resplendence  during  the 
evening,  were  now  becoming  obscured  by 
thick  black  clouds  which  arose  suddenly 
from  behind  the  Sierra  Madre,  and  as  they 
spread  their  black  wings  towards  the  zenith 
of  the  starry  canopy,  flashes  of  lightning 
darted  across  the  heavens,  and  the  rolling 
of  thunder  was  louder  and  louder  at  each 
successive  report ;  and  now  violent  gusts  of 
wind  came  sweeping  across  the  plain,  and 
big  drops  of  rain  began  to  patter  heavily 
against  the  casement.  Anon,  the  combined 
elements  were  in  furious  commotion — the 
rain  poured  in  torrents — the  lightnings  flash- 
ed vividJy — and  heaven's  artillery  rumbled 
and  roared  with  fearful  power.  At  one  mo- 
ment the  whole  scene  would  be  lighted  up 
as  if  but  one  complete  mass  of  lurid  flame — 
in  the  next  pitchy  darkness,  so  impenetrable 
that  the  outlines  of  the  nearest  and  most 
prominent  objects  were  entirely  undiscerni- 
ble  to  the  eye. 

As  may  well  be  supposed,  Donna  Elvira 
had  not  yet  closed  her  eyes  in  sleep ;  not 


because  of  the  howlings  of  the  storm,  nor 
the  terrific  flashes  of  light,  but  because  her 
whole  thoughts  were  engrossed  by  him,  who, 
alas,  was  so  soon  to  bid  her  farewell !  A« 
the  elements  raged  in  all  their  violence,  she 
could  but  secretly  rejoice ;  for  the  youthful 
officer,  she  reasoned  within  herself,  would 
not  think  of  venturing  abroad  on  such  a  per- 
ilous night  as  that,  and  she  should  be  blessed 
with  his  society  for  another  day  ! 

She  arose  from  her  couch,  on  which  she 
had  reclined  without  disrobing  herself,  and 
after  lighting  a  taper,  went  to  the  door  of 
Allston's  apartment  and  rapped  lightly  upon 
it.  She  waited  awhile  and  repeated  the 
summons.  Still  no  answer.  She  then  op- 
ened the  door  with  as  little  noise* as  possible 
and  entered  the  apartment,  and  approached 
his  bedside.  He  was  in  a  sleep  so  quiet 
that  she  resolved  not  to  disturb  him  until 
the  storm  should  abate.  She  looked  from 
the  casement  and  endeavored  to  penetrate 
with  her  gaze  the  opaque  gloom  without. 
Not  an  object  was  visible,  when  the  vivid 
lightning's  flash  for  a  moment  illumined  the 
scene.  She  was  not  certain,  but  fancied 
that  she  saw  the  forms  of  three  men,  stand- 
ing beneath  the  shelter  of  a  large  tree  which 
stood  some  twenty  rods  distance  from  the 


80 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


house.  She  awaited  until  another  flash, 
when  a  more  distinct  view  of  them  was  had. 
This  circumstance  would  have  passed  her 
mind  as  an  ordinary  occurrence  notwith- 
standing the  lateness  of  the  hour,  were  they 
not  exposed  to  the  violence  of  the  wind  and 
rain,  but  also  to  the  lightning's  deadly  stroke. 
Obscuring  the  lighted  taper  by  a  shade,  so 
that  she  might  not  herself  be  seen,  she  again 
approached  the  window,  determining  to  sat- 
isfy herself  as  to  their  being  what  they  ap- 
peared, and  if  so,  to  ascertain  for  what  pur- 
pose they  were  there  at  such,  an  hour  and  in 
such  an  unclement  storm.  The  scene  was 
again  illumined,  and  she  once  more  distinct- 
ly discerned  them  at  a  shorter  distance  from 
the  house  than  before,  and  likewise,  near  by 
them  stood  four  horses,  saddled  and  bridled. 
This  added  to  her  curiosity,  and  rendered 
the  mystery  still  more  mysterious  ;  but  that 
they  were  engaged  in  some  villainous  enter- 
prise, she  did  not  doubt.  Once  more  she 
was  enabled  to  catch  a  momentary  glimpse 
of  their  proceedings,  when  she  saw  that  one 
of  the  trio  bore  upon  his  left  shoulder  an 
escala  real,  (accommodation  ladder,)  and 
that  all  of  them  were  approaching  the  house. 
Their  footsteps,  although  light,  were  now 
heard,  and  placing  her  ear  close  to  the  case- 
ment the  noise  made  by  placing  the  ladder 
against  the  house  was  easily  distinguished. 

Elvira  was  greatly  alarmed,  for  her  first 
impression  was,  that  they  had  by  means  un- 
accountable, discovered  her  great  secret  in 
regard  to  the  American  officer;  and  that 
they  chose  these  means  to  get  him  into  their 
clutches  and  bear  him  away  or  murder  him 
on  the  spot.  Notwithstanding  her  fears  the 
noble  girl  did  not  entirely  lose  her  self-pos- 
session, but  she  trembled  to  think  of  the 
consequences  which  a  short  space  of  time 
would  have  brought  about,  had  she  not  by 
the  merest  chance  discovered  some  of  their 
movements.  She  summoned  up  all  the  cour- 
age which  often  before  had  aided  her.  She 
had  been  schooled  in  dangers,  and  she  knew 


that  she  had  power   to  act  with  tolerable 
coolness  in  cases  of  great  emergency. 

She  immediately  ran  to  the  couch  of  Alls- 
ton,  awoke  him  from  a  quiet  repose,  and 
hastily  imparted  to  him  the  strange  circum- 
stance, and  the  perils  which  would  soon  en- 
compass him.  Fortunately  he  was  ready  at- 
tired with  the  exception  of  his  military  coat 
which  he  quickly  threw  on.  He  examined 
his  revolvers  and  found  each  barrel  charged 
and  in  good  order ;  and,  thus  armed,  he  re- 
solved to  sell  his  life  dearly,  rather  than  to 
fall  into  the  hands  of  an  enemy ! 

He  extinguished  the  taper,  and  entreated 
Elvira  to  leave  his  apartment,  and  not  to  ex- 
pose herself  to  the  threatened  danger. — 
With  reluctance  she  did  as  he  besought  her, 
and  she  retired  into  her  own  room,  but  seiz- 
ing a  glittering  poignard  and  a  pair  of  pis- 
tols from  an  adjoining  closet,  she  look  a  po- 
sition but  a  pace  beyond  the  threshold  which 
divided  her  from  her  lover,  resolving  not  on- 
ly to  use  the  weapons  in  his  defence,  but  if 
he  fell,  to  strike  the  steel  to  her  own  heart! 

The  storm  now  raged  with  less  violence; 
the  lightning  flashed  not  so  frequently  nor 
so  vivid,  yet  the  darkness  was  as  impenetra- 
ble  as  before.  Allston,  after  having  masked 
his  features,  at  Elvira's  suggestion,  approach- 
ed the  casement  and  listened,  but  no  noise 
could  he  hear  except  the  rustling  of  the 
leaves  and  the  pattering  of  the  rain.  With 
a  slow  and  cautious  movement  he  pushed 
aside  the  casement,  and  again  listening  he 
was  enabled  to  hear  hoarse  whisperings  from 
below,  but  understood  naught  of  that  upon 
which  they  were  conversing.  Presently  ha 
heard  one  of  the  conspirators  place  his  foot 
upon  the  ladder  and  commence  ascending. 
The  decisive  moment  had  arrived.  Should 
he  fire  upon  the  miscreant? — this,  thought 
he,  would  alarm  the  half  score  of  Rancheros, 
whom  he  knew  occupied  the  guard-house; 
and  he  was  not  certain  that  these  men 
belonged  to  the  band  who  usually  quartered 
there.  However,  he  had'iittle  time  for  re- 
flection; for  the  man  had  already  ascended 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


81 


more  than  half  way  up  the  ladder  which 
reached  nearly  up  to  the  casement  where  he 
looked.  A  half  minute  more  and  the  bur- 
glar would  arrive  at  the  top  !  A  bold  expe- 
dient suddenly  flashed  upon  Allston's  mind. 
He  leaned  over  upon  his  breast  and  his  hand 
grasped  the  top  of  the  ladder — one  powerful 
effort  and  he  hurled  both  ladder  and  man  to 
the  earth  !  the  latter  falling  so  that  his  head 
came  in  contact  with  the  stone  steps !  a  few 
groans  only  escaping  him  and  Roberto  was 
a  corpse ! 

His  comrades  thinking  his  death  the  re- 
sult of  an  accident,  for  it  was  yet  too  dark 
to  distinguish  any  one  even  at  the  shortest 
distance,  began  again  to  raise  up  the  ladder 
for  a  second  trial,  when  a  dim  flash  of  light- 
ning for  an  instant  revealed  to  Juliano  the 
figure  of  a  strange  looking  individual  stand- 
ing at  the  casement  above  ! 

The  cause  of  the  ladder's  falling  was  no 
longer  a  mystery  to  the  mind  of  the  unscru- 
pulous leader  in  this  diabolical  enterprise — 
and  horrid  oaths  and  revengeful  maledictions 
upon  the  head  of  Senor  Espindola,  fell  from 
his  lips  in  subdued  but  harsh  and  ruggec 
tones. 

He  ordered  Mateo  to  run  to  the  guard- 
house and  quickly  summons  all  his  men  fo 
the  purpose  of  wreaking  summary  vengeance 
upon  the  supposed  author  of  his  comrade's 
death.  He  fired  one  of  his  pistols  towards 
the  casement,  but  the  ball  did  no  other  dam 
age  than  to  shiver  a  pane  of  glass ;  hii 
would-be  victim  having  readily  apprehendec 
danger  from  this  source,  and  had  wisely  re 
treated  a  few  paces.  The  report  of  the  pis 
tol  aroused  Espindola  from  his  repose,  an 
hurried  the  movements  of  the  Rancheroa 
The  old  man,  to  learn  the  cause  of  this  mid 
night  disturbance,  sdon  afterward  appeare 
at  the  door  bearing  a  torch-light  in  his  hanc 
Simultaneously  appeared  some  half  doze 
men,  whom  Mateo  had  aroused  from  thei 
clumbers ;  and  on  Espindola's  demandin 
the  meaning  of  this  disturbance,  Don  Jul 


no  exclaimed  to  his  comrades,  and  at  the 
ame  time  pointing  towards  the  door  : 
'  There  stands  the  hoary-headed  villain, 

0  has  killed  your   comrade,  Roberto ! — • 
\.venge,  men,  his  cruel  death !' 

'  What  means ' 

The  unfortunate  Espindola  had  no  time 
o  finish  his  inquiry,  for  one  of  the  Rariche- 
os  rushed  suddenly  towards  him  and  buried 
is  macheta  in  his  body,  and  the  old  man 
ell  bleeding  across  the  threshold  of  the 
loor  !  But  this  cruel  act  was  most  summa 
ily  avenged,  for  the  vile  assassin  fell  almost 
nstantly  afterwards  by  a  pistol  shot  fired 
rom  the  casement  above  !' 

1  Treason  !  treason  !'  cried  Don  Juliano, 
as  the  pistol's  flash  enabled  him  to  catch  an- 
other glimpse  of  the  masked  figure  above. 

There  are  other  foes  within !  This  old 
wretch,'  continued  he,  pointing  to  the  bleed- 
ng  body  of  Espindola,  '  hath  betrayed  us  ! 
T  et  not  one  escape  alive,  except  his  daugh- 
ter!' 

Two  or  three  Indian  domestics,  who 
odged  in  a  small  tenement  in  the  rear  of 
the  main  building,  hearing  the  disturbance, 
rushed  forth  to  learn  the  cause.  Juliano, 
without  ascertaining  whether  they  were 
friends  or  enemies,  ordered  his  men  to  put 
them  to  death  !  They  were  accordingly  des- 
patched without  mercy  !  they  had  no  means 
of  defence,  having  rushed  into  peril  with- 
out knowing  the  why  or  wherefore. 

Don  Juliano,  leaving  three  of  his  men 
outside,  to  prevent  any  one  escaping  from 
the  casement,  ordered  the  others  to  follow 
him  into  the  house,  for  the  purpose  of  seiz- 
ing upon  Elvira,  and  cutting  off  any  egress 
attempted  by  whoever  might  be  within. 

With  the  torch  of  Eepmdola  in  his  hand, 
which  he  seized  as  he  passed  the  body,  he 
entered  the  house,  and  resolutely  rushed  up 
stairs,  followed  by  his  comrades !  They 
examined  each  apartment  as  they  proceeded 
along,  but  encountered  no  foe  unlil  they  en- 
tered the  apartment  of  Elvira,  who  was 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


8tanding  at  the  opposite  door,  guarding,  as 
it  were,  the  chamber  which  held  the  real  ob- 
ject of  their  vengeance ! 

With  an  unterrified  look  and  air,  which 
seemed  to  indicate  that  not  one  of  the  vil- 
lains could  approach  her  with  safety,  she 
held  her  position  for  some  moments,  await- 
ing their  movements. 

At  length  Don  Juliano,  who  at  first  felt 
somewhat  awed  up'on  meeting  from  her  keen 
eye  a  gaze  of  defiance,  summoned  up  his 
courage,  and  exclaimed  to  his  men  : 

*  Seize  her  !     She's  a  vile  traitress  !  but 
spare  her  life!' 

'  Approach  me  not,  villains  !*  she  said  in 
firm  and  meaning  tones.  '  The  first  who 
dares  will  fall  by  my  hand  Y 

No  one  stirred,  for  each  one  felt  that  the 
threat  would  be  put  into  execution. 

*  Are  ye  cowards,  my  men !'  cried  Don  Ju- 
liano.    '  Does  the  threat  of  a  weak  girl  un- 
man ye?     Seize  her,  I  say  !'  f 

*  Again  I  repeat,  approach  me  not !'  said 
Elvira,  still  undaunted.     '  Death  will  be  the 
first  man's — — — ' 

But  they  interrupted  her  warning  voice, 
and  two  of  the  wretches,  with  naked  mache- 
tas  in  their  hands  sprang  towards  her.  She 
levelled  a  pistol  and  instantly  fired  !  One 
of  them  staggered  a  few  paces  back  and  fell 
a  lifeless  corpse !  The  other,  frightened, 
attempted  to  rush  out  of  the  room,  but  Ju- 
liano, maddened  at  his  cowardice,  struck 
him  a  blow  upon  his  head  with  the  butt  of  a 
heavy  pistol  which  levelled  him  to  the  floor 
in  a  senseless  condition. 

Meanwhile  these  events  were  going  on 
within,  Allston  having  shot  down  two  of  the 
desperadoes  who  remained  without,  the  oth- 
er with  affright  turned  upon  his  heel  and  fled 
with  all  his* speed  towards  the  forest.  Hear- 
ing the  pistol  report  in  the  adjoining  room, 
he  ran  to  assist  Donna  Elvira ;  but  to  his 
surprise  and  sorrow,  he  found  that  she  had 
taken  the  precaution  to  fasten  the  door ! — 
He  went  to  the  casement,  and  finding  that 


the  ladder  had  not  been  removed,  he  took  ad* 
vantage  of  it  and  quickly  descended  to  the 
ground  !  His  only  thought  now  being  in  re* 
gard  to  the  safety  of  Elvira,  he  sought  the 
door  of  the  house  and  entered ;  but  having 
no  light  to  guiJe  his  steps,  and  being  unac* 
quainted  with  the  arrangement  of  the  house, 
he  groped  his  way  along  as  well  as  he  could 
solely  by  aid  of  the  confused  sounds  that 
reached  his  ear  from  above.  At  length  he 
found  the  stair  case,  which  he  quickly  as- 
cended, and  groping  his  way  through  sever* 
al  rooms,  he  at  length  caught  sight  of  the 
glimmer  of  a  light  through  the  key-hole  of 
the  door  which  he  supposed  was  the  entrance 
to  Elvira's.  Hearing  a  scream  he  rushed 
forward,  burst  open  the  door,  and  beheld  his 
loved  protectress  struggling  in  the  hands  of 
the  two  remaining  villains!  He  dared  not 
fire,  lest  his  shot  might  strike  Elvira,  for  his 
arm  was  unnerved  at  the  spectacle !  but 
dashing  his  revolver  to  the  floor,  he  sprang 
forward,  and  seizing  one  of  the  wretches  by 
the  throat,  he  quickly  caused  him  to  let  go 
his  grasp  upon  the  struggling  girl.  The 
other,  without  turning  to  the  assistance  of 
his  comrade  still  clung  to  Elvira,  and  raising 
her  in  his  arms,  attempted  to  bear  her  from 
the  room ;  but  her  right  arm  being  now 
freed,  she  snatched  a  poniard  from  her  belt> 
and  buried  it  in  the  villain's  breast  ere  he 
could  arrest  the  deadly  blow,  and  Don  Juli* 
ano,  fell,  gaspingly,  at  her  feet !  In  another 
moment,  Elvira,  fainting  from  exhaustion, 
and  from  the  sight  of  such  a  bloody  specta- 
cle, fell  almost  senseless  into  the  arms  of 
her  lover !  Laying  her  upon  the  couch  he 
seized  a  pitcher  of  water  and  dashing  por- 
tions of  it  into  her  face,  at  intervals,  he  soon 
had  the  satisfaction  of  seeing  her  eyes  again 
unclosed,  and  hearing  the  tones  of  her  sweet 
voice ! 

Not  knowing  whether  the  danger  was  yet 
over  or  not,  Allston  took  the  blazing  torch, 
and  went  below  for  the  purpose  of  ascer- 
taining if  any  of  the  foe  were  yet  lurking 
about  the  premises.  All  was  as  quiet  with- 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


out  as  before  the  attack.  The  storm,  too, 
had  passed,  and  the  starry  heavens  appeared 
more  bright  and  beautiful  than  before  the 
raging  of  the  elements.  The  three  assas- 
sins whom  he  had  shot  from  the  casement 
were  lying  stiff  and  cold  upon  the  ground  ! 
He  re-entered  the  dwelling,  when  his  eye 
fell  upon  the  haggard  features  and  bleeding 
form  of  Espindola.  After  barricading  the 
door,  he  lifted  the  inanimate  body  in  his 
arms  and  bore  it  to  the  room  where  the  old 
man  usually  slept.  On  examination  he 
found  that  he  was  yet  alive,  but  dangerously 
wounded,  whether  mortally  or  not  he  was 
incapable  of  judging.  Staunching  the  ma- 
cheta  wound  as  well  as  he  could,  he  hasten- 
ed up  stairs  to  inform  Elvira  of  her  father's 
dangerous  situation.  She  had  recovered 
from  her  faintness,  and  he  led  her  down  to 
look  upon  a  scene  more  grievous  than  any 
§he  had  yet  beheld  !  She  wept  bitterly  over 
the  prostrate  form  of  him  who  had  been  her 
guide  and  sole  protector  from  infancy.  But 
he  was  yet  alive,  and  the  hope  that  he  might 
recover  incited  her  to  action.  Wiping  away 
the  tears  of  sorrow,  she  commenced  dressing 
the  ghastly  wound  from  which  the  blood  had 
now  ceased  oozing  ;  this  accomplished  she 
bathed  his  brow  with  cooling  water,  and 
with  Allston's  aid  she  propped  up  his  head 
with  pillows.  These  little  attentions  began 
to  revive  him,  and  ere  long  he  had  sufficient- 
ly recovered  his  consciousness  to  be  aware 
of  his  condition.  Allston,  on  perceiving 
that  his  senses  were  being  restored  to  him, 
retired  to  another  apartment,  deeming  that 
his  presence  might  disturb  the  wounded 
man. 

'  How  is  it  with  you,  father  T  enquired 
Elvira,  while  tears  again  dropped  from  her 
eyes. 

«  Weep  rfot,  my  child,'  replied  he,  feebly  ; 
'  I  am  but  an  old  man — I  knew  my  term  of 
life  had  well-nigh  expired— I  thought,  too, 
that  I  should  die  by  an  assassin,  who  would 
do  the  deed  for  gold — but,  thank  Heaven 
it  was  beyond  their  reach  !' 


'  Ah  !  my  father!'  asked  Elvira,  who  was 
the  miscreant  who  could  so  cruelly  raise  his 
[land  against  you.5 

'Twas  done  at  the  instigation  of  the  mer- 
iless  Don  Juliano.' 

'  Ah  !  then  have  you  been  fearfully  aven- 
ged !  The  inhuman  monster,  and  his  vile 
confederates  have  all  been  killed  !  With 
my  own  hand  I  struck  the  poignard  to  his 
heart,  where  it  yet  remains  buried  !' 

1  My  noble,  my  brave-hearted  girl !'  cried 
the  old  man,  exultingly.  *  I  now  can  die 
contented ;  that  reptile  has  been  the  bane  of 
my  existence,  and  the  only  being  in  shape  of 
humanity,  on  God's  footstool,  that  I  feared  1 
He  had  gained  an  undue  power  over  me, 
concerning  which  thou  wilt  hereafter  learn  1 
Yes,  I  can  now  die  happy — but  ere- ' 

1  Oh,  talk  not  of  dying !'  exclaimed  Elvi- 
ra, in  tones  of  anguish.  'Now  that  the 
monster  whom  you  feared  is  dead,  talk  of 
many  days  of  happiness  yet  to  come  !' 

'  No,  my  child,  the  wound  is  a  mortal  one. 
Already  do  I  feel  the  clammy  hand  of  death 
upon  me — but,  I  die  happy — thou  Jrt  well 
provided  for — all  my  estate  is  thine — and  a 
goodly  sum  is  there  of  gold  !  Ah  !  I  had  al- 
most forgot — go,  my  child,  to  the  escruitoire 
and  take  from  it  a  large  key — it  unlocks  the 
iron  chest,  in  which  thou  wilt  find  a  very 
small  trunk — bring  the  trunk  to  me.' 

Elvira  followed  his  directions,  and  placed 
it  before  him.  He  felt  for  a  spring  but  was 
too  feeble  to  press  it  down.  * 

'  Take  it  Elvira,'  he  continued  ;  '  it  opens 
by  a  spring  in  this  corner — press  it  hard 
with  thy  thumb  and  the  lid  will  fly  open.' 

Elvira  tried  the  spring  and  the  lid  flew  op- 
en with  a  slight  pressure. 

'  Ah,  that  is  right !'  he  resumed,  and  tak- 
ing therefrom  a  sealed  packet  of  papers.— 
'  When  I  am  gone,  my  child,  thou  wilt  break 
this  seal — beneath  it  lies  a  key  to  all  my 
wealth-— and  there  are  few  men,  although  I 
say  it,  in  all  Mexico,  who  can  boast  of  so 
much  wealth  as  the  contents  of  this  packet 


84 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON 


will  reveal  to  thee — it  is  all  thine,  Elvira. — 
There  is  likewise  within  another  sealed  doc- 
ument, which  must  not  be  opened  until  thou 
hast  attained  the  age  of  twenty.  When  the 
alcalde  of  the  village  hears  of  my  death,  he 
will  corne  hither  to  dispose  of  my  body — 
place  entire  confidence  in  him,  and  obey  his 
will — for  I  have,  in  anticipation  of  rny  near 
approach  to  the  grave,  already  conferred  with 
him — he  will  be  thy  protector  for  a  time, 
during  which  my  wishes  for  thy  future  wel- 
fare will  be  made  known  to  thee.  Guard 
these  papers  with  all  thy  caution — trust  them 
not  beyond  thy  reach — once  lost  and  all  thy 
prospects  will  be  clouded.' 

As  he  uttered  these  last  words  his  head 
fell  back  upon  the  pillow,  and  for  some  mo- 
ments he  could  not  speak. 

Allston,  thinking  that  his  last  moments 
had  come,  cautiously  approached  the  bed- 
side. The  dying  man,  for  some  moments, 
seemed  to  have  lost  his  sight,  for  his  eyes 
stared  vacantly  about  the  room.  At  length 
they  became  fixed  upon  the  youth  who  stood 
by  EJvira,  and  he  started  up. 

*Ah!  who's  that,  Elvira?'  he  enquired, 
gaspingly. 

'  He  is  our  friend  and  protector,  father  ;' 
answered  Elvira.  '  His  timely  efforts  saved 
me  from  being  dragged  away  and  perhaps 
from  being  murdered  by  the  assassin.' 

'  But  his  looks  are ' 

'  True,  father,  he  is  an  American/  said 
Elvira,  anticipating  what  he  would  say,  and 
which  Espindola's  weakness  cut  short. 

Recovering  a  little  strength,  he  asked, 

'  Said'st  thou  he  saved  thy  life,  Elvira?' 

'  I  did,  father.  The  ruffians  had  me  al- 
ready within  their  grasp,  when  he  rushed 
to  my  assistance.' 

'  Then  God  bless  thee,  stranger — I  am  no 
enemy  of  thine  or  thy  people — see  that  no* 
harm — befall — this  dear  girl — Elvira,  fare- 
well— I  cannot  live — I  die — Heaven  bless 
thee — oh 

A  few  groans  succeeded  these  incoherent 


sentences,  and  the  murdered  old  man  breath- 
ed his  last  ! 

For  some  time  the  youthful  pair  stood  be- 
side that  couch  of  death,  the  tears  gushing 
from  the  eyes  of  both.  Elvira  wept  that  she 
had  lost  her  aged  protector — Henry  wept 

in  sympathy  for  the  afflicted, 
qu&odicl  bite  ?/•       

Bright  morning  soon  dawned.  The  only 
servant  who  had  escaped  the  assassin's 
knife  was  despatched  to  the  village  for  the 
worthy  Alcalde,  of  whom  Espindola,  in  his 
last  hour,  had  spoken.  This  important  func- 
tionary, with  due  despatch,  arrived  with  his 
secretary,  and  a  holy  father  of  the  church. 
The  solemn  rites  due  to  the  deceased  were 
performed  without  unnecessary  delay,  and 
Espindola's  remains  were  deposited  in  the 
tomb  which  he  had  prepared  with  his  own 
haads. 

A  deep  grave  was  dug  for  the  murderers, 
into  which  they  were  thrown  and  buried 
unblest  by  any  rite  of  the  church. 

The  Alcalde  having  performed  the  secu- 
lar affairs  of  the  deceased,  devolving  upon 
him,  not  only  by  his  office  but  by  Espindo- 
la's commission,  took  Elvira  under  his  be- 
nevolent protection,  and  conveyed  her  to  his 
home,  whither  Allston  accompanied  them. 

On  the  next  morning  the  lovers  bade  each 
other  an  affectionate  farewell,  and  our  ad- 
venturous and  heroic  young  American, 
mounted  upon  an  inferior  horse  that  he  had 
purchased  at  the  village,  sat  out,  unattended, 
for  the  city  of  Monterey,  at  which  place  he 
arrived  safely  after  a  slow  and  tedious  ride  of 
three  hours. 

Unfortunately,  he  was  too  late  to  rejoin 
his  company  there,  the  Dragoon  corps  hav- 
ing previously  sat  out  for  Saltillo.  Howev- 
er, he  ascertained,  on  application  to  head- 
quarters, that  a  brigade  of  infantry  would 
take  up  their  line  of  march  in  the  same  di- 
rection on  the  succeeding  day,  and  it  was 
expected  that  the  brigade  would  overtake  the 
advance  at  a  small  town  called  St.  Hidalgo, 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


85 


where  most  of  the  forces  it  was  supposed 
would  concentrate.  He  availed  himself  of 
this  opportunity,  and  on  the  next  day  was 
pushing  forward  with  the  infantry,  impatient 
to  see  his  friends,  and  allay  their  anxiety  in 
regard  to  his  fate. 


We  must  now  pass  over  a  period  of  sever- 
al weeks,  to  that  day  on  which  the  bloodiest 
of  all  the  battles  of  Mexico  was  fought ;  a 
contest  which  not  only  the  American  people 
but  all  the  nations  of  Europe  look  upon 
with  wonder ! 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


CHAPTER    XIV; 


Battle  of  Buena   Vista.     Heroic   Conduct  of  the  Light  Dragoons.    A 

Contest  between  Captain    Clifton    and   a  Colonel  of  Lancers.     Defeat  of  the  Latter 
The  Wild  California  Charger.     A    Night  Scene   on   the  Field  of  Battle.     Roman? 
Falcon  and  his  Prisoners,     The  Strange   Youth.     Singular  Denouement. 


UENA  VISTA  !  What  thril- 
ling emotions  move  the  heart 
of  every  patriotic  American 
at  the  mere  mention  of  the 
locale  of  the  most  remarkable 
conflict  of  modern  times  ?  Remarkable  not 
only  on  account  of  the  disparity  of  numbers 
of  the  American  forces  when  compared  with 
the  Mexican  legions,  but  on  account  of  the 
former  being  made  up  almost  entirely  of  raw, 
undisciplined  recruits,  many  of  which  had 
only  '  heard  of  battles,'  while  the  vanquished 
army  was  composed  of  the  flower  of  Mex- 
ico's most  experienced  soldiery,  and  led,  too, 
by  their  great  chieftain,  Santa  Anna. 

But,  without  digressing,  or  going  over  the 
details  of  that  hard  contested  battle,  which 
are  '  familiar  as  household  words'  to  almost 
every  American,  we  will  only  write  of  a  few 
incidents,  in  which  several  of  our  characters 
performed  almost *  prodigies  of  valor.' 

The  grand  manoeuvre  of  Santa  Anna,  by 
which  he  was  to  gain  a  decisive  victory  over 
the  Americans,was,  now  that  his  every  other 


effort  had  failed,  on  the  point  of  bei'ng  car- 
ried into  execution.  This  was  nothing  less 
than  to  outflank  the  left  of  the  enemy's  liner 
and  gain  his  rear.  Immense  masses  of  the 
Mexican  Cavalry  and  Infantry  began  to  as- 
cend the  heights,  preparatory  to  the.  over- 
whelming charge  which  was  to  be  made 
against  the  thin  ranks  upon  the  field  below. 
The  mountain's  side  literally  glistened  with 
bristling  bayonets  and  lances.  Several  bat- 
teries, stationed  to  support  the  charge,  now 
began  pouring  a  shower  of  grape  and  can- 
nister  upon  the  infantry  within  reach  with 
such  deadly  effect,  that  one  regiment  was 
forced  to  fly  from  the  field.  Simultaneously 
the  cavalry  and  infantry,  which  had  gained 
the  heights,  charged  with  almost  resistless 
fury  upon  the  left  of  their  enemy's  line,  but 
they  were  held  in  check  by  the  well  directed 
fires  of  the  several  batteries  which  were  now 
opened  upon  them,  and  the  infantry  and  the 
greater  portion  of  the  cavalry  were  forced 
to  retreat  while  destruction  was  dealt  among 
them. 

The  left  of  the  American   line,  notwith- 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


87 


•standing  the  failure  of  the  charge,  was  turn- 
ed, and  a  formidable  squadron  of  lancers, 
gained  the  rear,  and  had  already  commenc- 
ed harrassing  our  brave  troops.  It  was  at 
this  critical  juncture  that  the  regiment  of 
Light  Dragoons,  held  in  reserve  under  com- 
mand of  Colonel  Granville,  charged  upon 
this  vastly  superior  body  of  lancers.  The 
latter  resisted  the  shock  so  spiritedly  that  for 
a  time  the  contest  seemed  doubtful,  notwith- 
standing the  dreadful  havoc  made  in  the 
ranks  of  the  Mexicans.  At  length  the  Dra- 
goons obtained  the  mastery,  and  would  have 
annihilated  them,  hnd  it  not  been  for  the 
well  known  trick  of  Santa  Anna — an  act 
which  must  ever  disgrace  him — in  displaying 
the  white  flag  for  no  other  purpose  than  to 
give  the  discomfited  cavalry  an  opportunity 
to  gain  the  main  body;  and,  at  the  same 
time,  allowing  a  portion  of  his  forces  to  con- 
tinue their  fire  upon  the  Americans ! 

The  moment  the  treachery  was  discovered 
ihe  Dragoons  pursued  their  enemy  and  dash- 
ed in  among  them  as  they  retreated.  The 
Mexicans  suddenly  turned  and  the  contest 
again  became  desperate  and  bioody.  Clif- 
ton's company  was  foremost  in  this  fight, 
atid  his  hardy  followers,  with  sabres  and  re-j 
rolvers,  did  terrible  execution. 

In  this  sanguinary  melee,  our  hero  engag- 
ed, single-handed,  with  a  Mexican  officer, 
who  was  mounted  upon  a  high-spirited  and 
noble-looking  California  charger.  He  came 
towards  our  hero  at  full  gallop,  with  lance 
poised,  and  aimed  a  blow  at  his  head,  but 
Clifton's  horse  rearing  at  the  moment,  the 
lance  penetrated  the  animal's  breast,  and 
with  the  rider  fell  to  the  earth — the  lance  of 
the  Mexican  snapping  in  tv/ain  at  the  same 
moment !  Clifton  instantly  springing  to  his 
feet,  seized  the  Mexican's  charger  by  the 
bridle  with  his  left  hand,  while  with  the  right 
he  struck  his  antagonist  a  blow  with  his  sa- 
bre which  caused  him  to  reel  in  the  saddle, 
and  finally  to  fall  to  the  earth  ! 

During  this  single  combat  the  Dragoons 
had  pressed  upon  the  Mexicans  so  severely, 


that  they  had  advanced  many  rods  ere  he 
had  completed  his  single-handed  victory ; 
and  he  found  himself  alone,  still  grasping 
the  wild  charger  of  his  defeated  antagonist 
by  the  bridle  !  It  required  more  than  his 
strength  to  hold  the  furious  animal  in  check 
long  enough  to  enable  him  to  vault  into  the 
saddle  ! 

To  his  amazement  he  now  saw  a  number 
of  the  enemy  flying  towards  him,  and  in  an- 
other minute,  unless  he  could  save  himself 
by  almost  a  miracle,  he  saw  that  he  must  fall 
into  their  hands  !  With  almost  superhuman 
strength  he  brought  the  fiery  charger  to  his 
haunches — leaped  into  the  saddle — and  in 
another  moment  he  was  borne  over  the  plain 
with  the  speed  of  the  wind  !  At  length 
with  his  utmost  efforts  he  gained  the  mas- 
tery over  the  almost  untamable  but  noble 
looking  animal,  and  rejoined  the  Dragoons, 
whose  victory  over  the  enemy  was  complete*! 
No  trophy  from  that  battle  field  was  prized 
more  highly  than  the  California  charger. — 
Clifton  learned  subsequently  that  the  officer 
whom  he  left  dead  upon  the  field,  was  a  Col- 
onel of  Lancers,  and  was  esteemed  as  one 
of  the  most  valiant  and  gallant  spirits  of  the 
Mexican  army.  The  horse  was  a  favorite, 
and  no  man  but  himself  had  ever  dared  to 
mount  him  until  our  hero  backed  him  upon 
the  field  of  Buena  Vista. 

The  battle  no  longer  raged.  The  last  ray* 
of  the  setting  sun  which  fell  upon  that  blood- 
stained field,  also  shone  upon  the  Star  Span- 
gled Banner,  as  it  wajed  over  that  plateau  oc 
which  the  old  hero  had  stood  amid  die  iron 
sleet,  giving  his  orders  with  the  utjnost  cooJ- 
ness,  even  when  shouts  of  victory  were  al- 
most upon  the  lips  of  the  enemy's  legions. 
The  latter  of  whom  were  now  fleeintr  in  tbc 
greatest  disorder  beyond  the  reach  of  our 
victorious  troops,  leaving  the  plain,  tfce 
roads  and  gullies  strewed  with  their  slain  and 
wounded. 

We  shall  pass  over  the  horrible  detail* 
which  characterized  that  night  upon  the 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


blood  field  of  Buena  Vista.  The  groans 
from  the  dying  and  suffering  were  heard  on 
all  sides.  Every  relief  which  the  victors 
could  afford  to  both  friends  and  enemies 
among  the  suffering,  was  freely  given ;  but 
the  relief  was  inadequate  to  the  hundreds 
to  whom  it  would  have  been  a  blessing. 

Among  the  Americans,  even  those  who 
escaped  without  a  wound,  many  fell  down 
absolutely  exhausted  with  the  fatigues  of  that 
dreadful  day's  work. 

There  was  one  spot,  in  particular, an  eievat 
ed  plain,  on  which  a  battery  had  been  served, 
where  great  numbers  of  the  killed  and  woun- 
ded, of  both  armies,  were  lying  promiscu- 
ously together.  Upon  this  battery,  with  an 
overwhelmiag  force,  had  the  Mexican  caval- 
ry charged.  It  had  a  brave  band  to  defend 
it,  and  the  slaughter  was  dreadful ;  but  the 
number  of  its  defenders  was  so  insignificant 
that  they  were  obliged  to  yield,  and  this  bat- 
tery fell  into  the  Mexican's  hands,  and  was 
the  only  trophy  they  had  to  boast  of  in  that 
day's  fight.  But  dearly  did  they  pay  for  it, 
and  they  were  compelled  to  drag  the  pieces 
of  cannon  over  the  dead  bodies  of  their  own 
companions  in  order  to  get  them  away. 

Among  this  promiscuous  mass  of  dead 
and  wounded,  there  lay  a  young  man,  who, 
from  his  richly  embroidered  uniform,  might 
easily  have  been  recognized  as  a  Mexican 
cavalry  officer.  His  dead  horse  lay  beside 
him,  and  also  his  weapons. 

'  Dios  de  Cielo  !'  he  exclaimed  in  agony  ; 
will  no  one  come  to  my  aid  V 

*  Did 'ony  jintleman  spake?'   enquired  a 
-son  of  the  Emerald  Isle,  who  laid  within   a 
yar^  of  the  wounded  officer.  <• 

*  A  hundred  pieces  of  gold  to  any  one  who 
will  assist  me  to  gain  comfortable  quarters/ 
said  the  Mexican  in  tolerably  good  English, 
in  answer  to  the  Irishman. 

*  Och  !  by  Saint  Pathrick,  I'd  take  the 
-job  for  half  the  mooney,  had  I  ony  now  the 
use  of  my  legs.     I've  aither  the  goot  or  a 
mighty  big  pace  of  cold  metal  in  both  of  my 
trothers,  so  bedad,  I'm  worse  nor  a  blind 
boss.' 


There  was  a  silence  of  words  for  a  min- 
ute or  two,  when  Pat  McCrickey — for  he  it 
was — again  renewed  the  conversation. 

'  Did  nobody  spake — if  nobody  did  spake 
let  him  be  afther  sayin'  it  over  agin.  I  like 
to  be  social  whin  a  body  is  in  disthressiir 
carcumstances.' 

The  Mexican  officer  groaned. 

'  Och,  be  Jabers !  I  don't  oonderstanci 
that  any  how  !  Now  if  my  legs  were  ony 
whole  would'nt  I  make  thracks  out  o'this, 
I'll  make  a  bit  of  an  examination  and  ap- 
praise damiges,'  continued  Pat,  raising  him- 
self up.  '  Now,  by  the  hooly  Powers  !  and 
indade  it's  nothin'  but  a  poor  dead  and  gone 
horse  that's  wounded  poor  Pat's  legs  afther 
all!' 

Pat  with  considerable  effort  released  his 
nether  limbs  from  the  uncomfortable  burthen 
and  again  resumed  : 

'Now,  Misthur  Mexikin,  jist  be  afther  re- 
pateing  that  nice  bit  ir  a  profithable  job. — 
Och!  by  the  powers!  there's  a  cutthroat 
looking  divil  coming.  I'll  be  dead  a  bit  ony 
how,  jist  to  see  whether  yer  errand  be  not  a 
divil's  one.  Bedad  now,  I  know  it  is,'  con- 
tinued Pat,  as  he  saw  a  savage  looking  Mex- 
ican prowling  about  the  dead  and  wounded, 
and  rifling  each  one  that  gave  prospect  of 
booty.  '  Be  asy,  Pat — be  asy.' 

The  Irishman  assumed  silence  and  he 
watched  the  progress  of  this  Mexican  robber 
of  the  dead,  and  at  length  saw  him  approach 
the  wounded  officer.  The  moment  the 
wretch  discovered  his  countryman  he  seem- 
ed to  recognize  him,  and  as  he  stooped  over 
hia  body  he  uttered  a  fiendish  laugh  of  exul- 
tation, and  began  to  pilfer  his  watch,  chain, 
and  other  ornaments.  The  officer  for  a  mo- 
ment seemed  to  recover,  when  the  robber 
unsheathed  a  murderous  looking  knife,  and 
in  another  moment  it  would  have  been  plun- 
ged into  the  officer's  heart,  had  not  Pat,  who 
narrowly  watched  his  movements,  started  up, 
and  discharged  a  pistol  at  the  head  of  tha 
unmerciful  monster.  The  ball  took  effect^ 
scattered  his  brains,  and  he  fell  a  corpse  uj>- 
on  the  field. 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON, 


89 


The  young  Mexican  officer  was  now  arou- 
sed from  the  lethargy  into  which  he  had  fall- 
en. 

*  Och,  bedad,  sir!'  exclaimed   Pat;  'one 
minute  more  and  you  'd  have  gone  to  glory 
shure.     '  I've  fixed  his   flint    for  him — the 
divil'sown  has  carried  his  oogly  sowl  'long 
with  him  into  Puggatory  'fore  this  ;  and  in 
ray  way  o'  thinkin'  divil  a  bit  beyant  will  it 
iver  git.' 

'  Who  are  you  speaking  of?'  enquired  the 
Mexican. 

'Who?  why  that  murdherin'  spalpeen 
'long  side  iv  ye.  I'll  hoist  ye  oop  a  bit  and 
ye  may  see  his  oogly  countenance,'  answered 
Pat,  raising  the  young  man  to  a  sitting  pos 
ture.  '  There  now  did  ye  iver  see  the  likes 
iv  sich  a  villain?'  too* 

'  Santa  Madre  !'  exclaimed  the  young  man, 
gazing  upon  the  robber's  face.  '  You  have 
killed  Canales  !' 

*  All's  the  better  loock   for   ye,'  returned 
Pat,  '  for  the  divil  wud  have  done  the  same 
thing  for  ye,  and  Pathrick  McCrickey  wud 
ha'  lost  the  bit  iv  a  job  yer  'onor  wud  be  af- 
ther  have  him  do.' 

'  Can  you  convey  me  to  a  place  of  safety  ?' 
asked  the  officer  ;  '  I  am  wounded  and  shall 
die  unless  relieved — a  hundred  pieces  of  gold 
shall  be  thy  reward.' 

'  How  big  paces,  yer  'onor  ?' 

'  Doubloons  !' 

'  Bedad,  then,  Pat  McCrickey's  yer  man 
Now  be  asy  whilst  I  get  ye  well  moonted  on 
behind  ;  and  I'll  bear  ye  'long  as  asy  as  a 
mither  wud  her  darlint  swate  babby.  But 
wait  a  bit  while  I  borry  the  loan  iv  a  few  iv 
this  copses  valerbles — he'll  have  no  use  for 
ithem  in  Puggatory,  yer  'onor. 

The  Irishman  quickly  disencumbered  the 
dead  body  of  Canales  of  sundry  watehes,  a 
quantity  of  gold  coin  and  jewels,  besides  sev- 
eral costly  pocket  weapons.  This  being  ac- 
complished he  managed  to  mount  the  woun- 
ded young  man  upon  his  back,  and  began 
trudging  his  way  towards  the  camp  of  the 
American  victors.  After  half  an  hour's  se- 


vere toil  Pat  succeeded  in  reaching  the  tent 
f  Captain  Clifton  with  the  young  Mexican 

upon  his  shoulders. 

1  Ere's  a  nice  bit  iv  a  job,  yer  'onor  for 

one  o'    the   dooclors,'  said  Pat,  addressing 

Clifton,  and  at  the  same  time  carefully  re- 
ieving  himself  of  his  burthen.     '  It's  ben  a 

mighty  tadious  one  for  Pat  McCrickey,  ony 


now. 


'  Ah  !'  exclaimed  Clifton,  recognizing  in 
the  Mexican  one  he  had  before  seen  ;  '  tm> 
is  the  brave  youth  whom  I  encountered  sin- 
gle-handed on  the  field  to-day.  Gladly  would 
I  have  spared  him  that  blow,  had  it  been 
possible  otherwise  to  have  saved  myself. — 
He  shall  have  the  same  attention  as  our  own 
wounded;  and,  Patrick,  you  shall  be  amplj 
rewarded  for  placing  him  under  my  protec- 
tion.' 

'Och,  bedad,  yer  'onor;  the  jintleman's 
promised  to  do  that  same  jinerous  thing  for 
himself.' 

'  Well,  Patrick,  go  to  the  surgeon's  tent, 
and  if  there's  a  surgeon  that  can  possibly  be 
pared,  even  for  a  few  minutes,  summon  him 
to  my  tent.' 

'  Yes,  yer  'onor,'  said  the  Irishman,  mak- 

i  j  >  » 

ing  a  sudden  exit. 

One  of  the  surgeons  soon  made  his  appear- 
ance, and  on  examining  and  dressing  the 
wound  pronounced  it  not  mortal.  By  kind 
attention  he  was  soon  rendered  comfortable, 
and  from  him  Clifton  learned  that  he  had 
formerly  been  a  colonel  in  the  Mexican  ar- 
my, but  had,  within  a  short  period,  joined 
Romano  Falcon's  band  of  Independents  and 
was  his  second  in  command;  and  that  the 
whole  corps  had  joined  the  army  of  Santa 
Anna,  just  before  that  general's  great  dem- 
onstration upon  the  American  lines. 

On  the  following  day  an  exchange  of  pris- 
oners between  the  armies  was  agreed  upon ; 
yet  Santa  Anna  declined  receiving  the  gue- 
rilla lieutenant  for  an  officer  of  equal  rank, 
ind  the  young  Mexican  yet  continued  to 
share  in  the  hospitalities  of  Captain  Clif- 
ton's quarters. 


90 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


In  a  day  or  two  afterwards   a  monk   was 
announced  at  the  tent,   who  desired   to  see 
the  wounded  prisoner.    He  was  immediately 
admitted,  and  Clifton  once  more  beheld  Ro- 
mano Falcon,  disguised   as  on   his   former 
sudden  appearance  before  Colonel  Granviile 
at  Monterey.     He  now  appeared  much  more 
humble  than  on  that  occasion,   and  offered 
to  exchange  all  the  American  prisoners  for 
his  wounded  lieutent.     Before,  however,  the 
arrangement  could  be  concluded,  what  was 
the  surprise  of  the  Guerilla  Chieftain  as  well 
as  Captain  Clifton,  to  behold,  marching  into1 
their  presence,  the  long  last  party  of  recon- 
naisance.  with  Lt.  Zeke  Short  at  their  head, 
and  also  followed  by  a  meek  but  handsome 
featured  youth,   attired   in  an  ill-fitting  but 
rich  Mexican  costume. 

'What  is  jthe  meaning  of  this?' ejaculated 


The   youth  seemed  to  shrink    from    his 
gaze,    and  with   a  downcast    expression  of 


countenance  was   about  to  turn 


away 


but 


Clifton,  delighted  again  to  meet  his  compan-l  with  as  rauch  aPParent  concern   as 
ions.     •  Are  these  the  prisoners  you  would!  rtaved  parent       Rosaha  2°ne  ? 


Clifton's  attention,  at  this  moment,  was  ar- 
rested by  the  sudden  entrance  of  Colonel 
Granviile,  who  looked  the  very  personifica- 
tion of  despair.  Without  regarding  the 
collection  of  persons  within  the  tent,  he 
wildly  exclaimed — 

'  For  Heaven's  sake,  Clifton,  tell  me,  have 
you  seen  anything  of  my  daughter  ?' 

'  Not  since  sunset,  last  evening!'  he  an- 
swered. 

'  Then  she  is  lost !'  continued  the  veteran. 
'  She  has  not  been  seen  around  my  quarter* 
since  retiring  last  night !' 

1  Can  it  be  possible  !  Then,  indeed,  have 
you  much  cause  for  alarm  !'  said  Clifton, 

the  be 
hen  will 


exchange  ?'  he  asked,  turning  to  the  aston- 
ished guerilla. 

'I'm  all  amazement!'  exclaimed  Romano 
Falcon.  '  An  hour  since  they  were  well 
secured  and  guarded  at  our  mountain  ren- 
dezvous !' 

'And  would  have  been  there  HOW,  had  it 
not  been  for  this  brave  youth,'  replied  Zeke, 
introducing  the  timid  looking  boy  ;  '  -I  told 
him  my  captain  would  reward  him  for  this 
service.' 

'Your  promise,  lieutenant,  shall  be  duly 
attended  to,'  replied  Clifton,  while  he  re- 
garded the  boy  with  an  eye  of  peculiar  in- 


I  go  in  search  of  her — nor  will  I  rest  until 
she  be  restored  to  your  arms,  living  or  dead  F 
•  Don't  put  yourselves  to  any  unnecessary 
trouble,'  said  the  supposed  Mexican  boy,  ta- 
king off  his  cap,  and  discovering  to  Gran^ 
ville's  and  Clifton's  astonishment  the  fair 
Rosalia  herself.  She  rushed  into  her  father's 
arms,  and  begged  his  pardon  for  the  alarm 
she  had  caused  him. 

4  I  will  explain  to  yourself  and  Captain 
Clifton,'  said  she,  '  my  adventures  since  last 
night  after  this  business  is  disposed  of.  My 
motive  you  have  before  you,  which  I  trust 
may  be  deemed  a  sufficient  palliation  for  my 
terest,  and  marked  with  admiration  a  profu-j  appearing  before  you  in  a  garb  which  I  know 
sion  of  luxuriant  curls  which  hung  over  his  ill  becomes  one  of  my  sex.' 
shoulders.  ' 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


91 


CHAPTER    XV, 


Rosalia  relates  her  Wonderful  Expedition  to  the  Mountain  Rendezvous  of  Romano 
Falcon  and  his  Band  of  Guerillas.  The  Return  of  the  Dragoons  to  Monterey. 
Visit  to  the  Alcalde  and  Elvira  Espindola. 


OME,  ROSA,'  said  Colonel 
Granvilie,  a  day  or  two  after 
the  singular  denouement  just 
related,  as  they  sat  in  an  apart- 
ment of  a  low  stone  house,  in 
Saltillo,  which  the  veteran  occupied  as  his 
quarters;  '  come,  tell  us  of  your  strange  ad- 
venture to  the  mountain  rendezvous  of  Ro- 
mano Falcon.  Captain  Clifton,  1  doubt  not, 
will  be  quite  as  much  edified  by  it  as  I  shall 
be  myself,' 

'  True,  colonel,  I  am  quite  impatient  to 
hear  it,'  replied  Clifton,  who  haJ  but  a  few 
moments  before  joined  his  friends.  *  I  can- 
not conceive  under  what  circumstances  a  la- 
dy could  be  induced  to  hazard  herself  on  an 
enterprise  to  a  robber's  cave.' 

4  You  must  not  infer,  Mr.  Clifton,  that 
because  there  are  some  cowards  even  among 
the  sterner  sex  that  all  ladies  must  necessa- 
rily be  cowards,  too,'  said  Rosalia,  tartly ; 
'  but  my  adventure,  I  assure  you,  is  neither 
•so  remarkable  eor  Tomaatic  as  you  appear  to 


imagine;  and  as  I  have  given  a  promise  to 
relate  it  to  you  I  will  keep  my  word.  The 
circumstances,  which  I  will  briefly  describe, 
are  these : — 

"  On  the  night  of  the  23d,  after  you  had 
returned  from  the  battle  field,  I  was  seated 
at  a  late  hour  in  my  chamber,  and  looking 
forth  from  the  casement,  I  saw  a  female  fig- 
ure glide  out  of  the  house  opposite,  and 
come  directly  across  the  street,  and  finally 
stood  directly  beneath  my  window.  Watch-,. 
ing  her  movements  I  saw  that  she  held  a 
letter  in  her  hand,  which,  from  her  gestures, 
I  was  aware  that  it  was  intended  for  me. 
To  a  piece  of  thread  which  I  lowered  from 
the  window  she  attached  the  letter  and  it 
was  vuickly  in  ray  possession.  I  broke  the 
seal,  and  by  a  taper  light,  I  read  as  follows : 

'  If  the  Senorita  Granvilie,  whom  I  have 
had  the  pleasure  of  seeing  from  the  casa  op- 
posite, has  courage  and  a  will  to  free  thir- 
teen American  captives  from  the  dungeon 
of  an  Outlaw,  she  will,  within  an  hour,  re- 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


pair  to  the  house  opposite,  where  she  will 
meet  with  one  of  her   own  sex  ready  and 


willing  to  aid  her. 


(Signed) 

BEATRIZ.' 


'  Impelled  partly  by  curiosity  and  partly 
by  a  desire  to  aid  the  unfortunate  captives 
if  within  my  power,  and  after  duly  consider- 
ing how  I  ought  to  act,  I  left  my  chamber, 
issued  from  the  house  as  noiselessly  as  pos- 
sible, and  flew  across  the  street,  when  I  met 
the  strange  female  at  the  door  ready  to  re- 
ceive me.  She  conducted  me  to  a  richly 
furnished  apartment,  where  I  was  enabled  to 
note  her  appearance.  She  took  me  by  the 
hand,  and  seated  herself  on  a  sofa  beside 
me,  when  she  threw  off  her  veil,  and  dis- 
closed to  my  gaze  the  most  brilliant  counte- 
nance I  ever  looked  upon :  and,  although 
ghe  appeared  to  be  at  least  thirty-five  'years 
old,  she  was,  nevertheless,  surpassingly  hand- 
some. From  the  earnestness  of  her  man- 
ners, and  the  apparent  sincerity  of  every 
word  that  she  uttered,  I  became  satisfied 
that  she  had  no  sinister  motive  in  enticing 
me  from  my  chamber,  although  it  was  past 
the  midnight  hour. 

'  I  have  not  time  to  explain  to  you  the  mo- 
tives of  my  singular  cpndutt,'  remarked  this 
lady  to  me  as  soon  as  we  were  seated ;  '  but 
in  order  that  you  may  surmise  the  truth  I  wil 
make  known  to  you  the  fact  that  I  am  the 
discarded  wife  of  Romano  Falcon.  Fur- 
thermore that  I  have  recently  been  foully 
wronged  by  him  ;  and  by  way  of  revenging 
myself  I  have  taken  an  oath  to  annoy  him 
by  every  means  in  my  power.  I  know  o 
thirteen  American  prisoners  who  are  con 
fined  in  a  dungeon  of  his  cavernous  castle 
in  the  mountain ;  and  I  can  conceive  of  no 
one  thing  which  he  would  feel  more  keenly 
than  the  escape  of  these  prisoners,  whom  he 
is  resolved  shall  remainimprisoned  until  the] 
are  ransomed  by  a  large  sum  of  money.  I 
you  have  courage,  lady,  and  will  but  follow 
my  directions,  before  to-morrow's  sun  shal 
climb  above  yon  mountain  peak  those  cap 
tives  shall  be  freed  from  the  power  of  the 
Guerilla  Chieftain. 


'But  why,'  asked  I,  '  do  you  not  under- 
ake  to  liberate  them  yourself?' 

'That  is  impossible!'  she  replied.  'I 
lave  been  banished  .from  his  mountain 
lome,  under  the  penalty  of  death  if  ever  I 
should  attempt  to  pass  his  guard.  Even  the 
sentinels  have  orders  to  shoot  me,  should  I 
re-appear  there/  • 

After  assuring  me  that  the  dangers  to  be 
encountered  were  insignificant,  if  I  but  fol- 
owed  her  instructions,  I  consented  to  en- 
gage in  the  enterprise. 

1 1  have  a  son  of  fifteen  years  of  age/ 
she  continued,  who  has  been  absent  for 
one  year  at  school,  and  is  daily  expected  at 
bis  father's  rendezvous.  It  seemed  to  me, 
on  observing  you  yesterday  at  the  casement 
opposite,  that  you  slightly  resembled  him, 
and  thinking  that  if  I  could  but  gain  your 
consent  to  be  disguised  in  a  suit  of  my  boy's 
clothes,  which  I  happen  to  have  in  my  pos- 
session, you  might  easily  gain  access  to  the 
cavern,  as  Romano  Falcon's  son,  without  be- 
ing suspected  by  the  sentinels.' 

'  But  the  father  will  surely  discover  the 
deception,'  I  suggested. 

'  That  is  the  least  of  the  obstacles,  for  I 
propose  that  you  should  appear  at  the  cave 
at  an  hour  when  he  and  a  portion  of  his  band 
will  be  absent ;  for  it  is  Romano  Falcon's 
invariable  practice  to  leave  his  quarters  at 
sunrise  with  most  of  his  followers,  and  to  re- 
main abroad  in  search  of  adventures  for 
two  or  three  hours,  when  they  return  to  en- 
joy their  morning  repast.  As  soon  as  it  is 
day-break,  I  propose  to  set  out  with  you  on 
easy  pacers,  which  I  have  already  provided, 
and  after  riding  about  a  league's  distance, 
we  shall  arrive  at  a  point,  where  we  can  se- 
crete ourselves,  and  from  it  discern  Falcon 
and  his  followers  when  they  set  out  on  their 
morning  excursion.' 

Without  explaining  any  further  here,  she 
produced  the  boy's  apparel,  of  which  she 
had  spoken,  and  assisted  to  metamorphose 
me  from  a  Yankee  lass  into  a  Mexican  boy, 
and  when  the  transformation  was  complete, 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOOiN. 


she  complimented  rnc  for  making  so  excel- 
lent a  counterfeit  cf  her  son.  I  may  as  well 
state,  however,  that  the  desired  effect  was 
not  produced  until  a  shade  or  two  of  a  brown 
color  was  added  to  my  face  by  some  sub- 
stance which  she  had  already  prepared. 

As  soon  as  the  first  streak  of  dawn  was 
visible,  we  mounted  the  horses  which  a  mes- 
tizzo  led  to  the  door,  and  galloped  off  in 
the  pure  morning  atmosphere  for  the  moun- 
tain, and  had  climbed  nearly  half  way  up 
its  steep  path  before  the  eastern  horizon 
was  tinted  with  the  first  beams  of  the  rising 
sun.  Approaching  a  little  farther  towards 
its  summit,  we  turned  off  into  a  thick  grove 
of  trees,  and  emerged  into  an  open  plateau, 
where  we  were  enabled  to  overlook  not  only 
the  entrance  of  the  guerillas  cave  but  also 
portions  of  the  path  we  had  just  ascended. 
Dismounting  we  led  our  horses  into  the 
grove  and  awaited  for  the  time  of  actioa.— - 
The  sun's  rays  had  no  sooner  lit  up  the  peaks 
of  the  mountain,  when  we  saw  a  troop  of 
horse  quickly  assemble  on  the  little  plain, 
and  in  a  short  time  they  galloped  down  the 
mountain's  side,  and  the  clatter  of  horse's 
hoofs  was  soon  beyond  our  hearing. 

'It  is  as  well  as  I  could  wish,'  said  this 
strange  lady,  at  length ;  '  he  has  gone,  and 
from  the  number  that  has  followed  him  I 
should  judge  that  there  could  not  be  half  a 
score  remaining  at  his  rendezvous.  Now  is 
the  time  for  action — be  bold  and  resolute, 
and  you  will  soon  have  done  your  country  a 
great  service.  You  will  now  place  these 
pistols  in  your  belt,  and  ride  boldly  up  the 
mountain  path,  and  when  you  have  reached 
a  cross  standing  on  the  left  of  the  path-way 
you  will  challenged  by  a  sentinel  for  the  pass 
word — give  'Independence.'  When  ,' you 
have  arrived  at  the  cave's  mouth  you  will 
again  be  challenged — answer  '  Amiga.'  Im- 
mediately dismount,  throw  the  rein  over  an 
iron  pest,  and  enter  the  cavern  with  the  same 
confidence  as  if  you  had  often  been  there. 
After  proceeding  a  few  rods,  you  will  per- 
ceive a  narrow  passage  turning  to  the  right. 


Follow  its  direction  until  you  arrive  at  an 
iron  door,  which  you  will  find  bolted  and 
barred.  Should  you  encounter  any  one 
within  the  cave,  who  attempts  to  thwart 
your  purpose,  show  this  ring — it  is  the  sig- 
net of  Romano  Falcon,  and  will  shield,  un- 
less your  sex  be  discovered.  Slip  the  bolts, 
and  unbar  the  iron  door  and  enter,  where 
you  will  find  your  captive  countrymen — tell 
them  the  object  of  your  appearing  there,  and 
direct  each  one  to  possess  himself  of  an  es- 
copeta,  as  he  passes  out,  there  being  a  stand 
of  arms  just  within  the  cavern's  mouth,  kept 
there  for  the  use  of  the  guard. 

Having  succeeded  in  freeing  the  prison- 
ers, there  is  another  service  which  I  would 
have  you  perform,  solely  of  interest  to  me, 
and  that  is  to  possess  yourself  of  a  small  cas-» 
ket,  which  you  will  find  in  the  upper  drawer 
of  a  cabinet  in  another  apartment,  the  en- 
trance to  which  is  through  another  narrow 
passage,  directly  opposite  to  the  one  leading 
to  the  prisoners'  cell.  But  this  last  service 
I  do  not  desire  you  to  attempt  unless  the 
captives,  once  free!  and  in  arms,  should 
overcome  all  who  are  left  to  guard  the  cav- 
ern. I  have  now  told  you  all  that  is  es- 
sential. Remember  the  instructions.  Go, 
and  may  Heaven  speed  you.'  fty^ft  Library 

With  confidence  that  I  should  succeed  at 
least  in  freeing  my  countrymen,  I  did  pre- 
cisely as  she  had  directed — passed  the  senti- 
nels without  the  least  difficulty — dismounted 
and  entered  the  gloomiest  looking  place  I 
ever  saw.  However,  I  was  too  intent  on  the 
grand  object  of  my  errand  to  take  note  of 
things  as  1  hurried  along.  I  came  to  the 
narrow  passage  into  which  I  turned  and  soon 
appeared  before  the  iron  doo^  which  had 
been  described  to  me.  With  little  effort  I 
slipped  the  bolts,  took  down  the  bars,  and 
opened  the  heavy  door.  In  another  minute 
all  the  prisoners  had  rushed  out  and  possess- 
ed themselves  of  the  escopetas.  The  alarm 
was  given,  and  the  guard  with  a  few  others 
fled  affrighted,  arid  without  making  the  least 
resistance 


94 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


1  bethought  me  of  the  casket,  arid  now 
feeling  a  great  desire  to  render  the  lady  a 
good  service,  I   hurried  to  the  apartment  in 
which  she  said  it  was  to  be  found.     To  my 
infinite  surprise,  on  entering,  a  young  and 
very  beautiful  lady  run  and  knelt  at  my  feet, 
and  implored  me  to  spare  her  life.    I  heeded 
her  not  at  this  moment,  but  perceiving  the 
cabinet   I    darted    towards   it,   opened   the 
drawer,  and  to  my  great  delight  possessed  my- 
self of  the  treasure  which  Romano  Falcon's 
wife  seemed  so  much  to   covet.     When 
turned  I  found  that  the  lady  who  had  sup 
plicated  for  rne  to  spare  her  life  had  fled 
I  thought  it  singular  that  I  should  be  an  ob 
ject  of  terror  to  her   eyes,  but  on  reflection 
I  bethought  myself  that  I  was  not  just  then 
to  appearance  a  woman  ;  and,  besides,  a  pai 
of  pistols  hung  in  my  belt. 

My  errand  having  been  thus  successful,  ! 
issued  from  the  cave,  rejoined  the  liberated 
Americans,  who  had  meanwhile  possessec 
themselves  of  horses  belonging  to  the  gue 
rillas.  I  hastened  to  re-join  the  lady  who 
had  planned  this  enterprise;  she  had  be 
come  aware  of  its  success,  and  rode  forth  to 
me,  and  when  I  placed  the  casket  in  her 
hands,  her  brilliant-  eyes  sparkled  with  de- 
light, and  wo'rds  could  not  express  her  grat- 
itude. She  opened  it,  and  selected  from  an 
immense  number  of  rich  jewels  this  dia- 
mond ring,  which  she  placed  upon  my  fin- 
ger." 

Here  Elvira  displayed  to  her  father  and 
Clifton,  the  valuable  gift  of  which  she  had 
spoken. 

"  After  an  absence  of  three  hours,'  con- 
tinued Rosalia ;  '  we  arrived  at  the  place 


whence  we  hS'd  started.  Here  we  separated, 
and  with  the  prisoners  1  hurried  to  your 
quarters,  arid  was  quite  abashed  when  I  dis- 
covered that  I  had  neglected  to  throw  off  my 
disguise.  This  is  the  whole  story  in  a  few 
words:  I'm  sure  there's  nothing  very  marvel- 
lous about  it." 

'  And  yet,'  remarked   Colonel  Granville, 
as  he  rubbed  his   hands,  and  his  eyes  spark- 


Jing  with  pride  ;  '  I  would  stake  my  reputa- 
tion as  a  soldier,  that  there's  not  one  girl  in 
twenty  thousand  who  has  courage  enough  to 
undertake  a  like  expedition.' 

'  But  you  forget,  father,  the  heroism  of  the 
Senorita  Espindola,  who  once  gave  us  lib- 
erty,' remarked  Rosalia.  *  My  adventure, 
as  regards  the  dangers  that  threatened  me, 
is  as  nothing  compared  to  that  of  the  brare 
girl  who  effected  our  escape.1 

'Ah,  I  didn't  think  of  her/  said  Gran- 
ville ;  '  at  all  events,  Rosa,  I  think  you  are 
quite  a  match  for  her.  What  say  you,  Clif- 
ton.' 

*  I  have  read  of  remarkable  deeds  per- 
formed by  women  in  the  olden  time,'  an- 
swered the  Dragoon  ;  '  but  I  was  not  before 
aware  that  the  women  of  the  present  day 
possessed  so  much  heroic  spirit.  From  El- 
vira's narrative,  I  am  convinced  that  this 
Romano  Falcon  is  a  greater  villain  than  he 
appears  to  be,  and  we  dealt  but  justly  by 
him  in  mulcting  him  of  that  thousand  dol- 
lars for  the  release  of  his  lieutenant.' 

Here  the  conversation  was  interrupted  by 
the  entrance  of  a  messenger  who  handed  a 
paper  to  Colonel  Granville  and  immediately 
retired. 

'  It  is  from  head  quarters,'  replied  Gran- 
ville, opening  the  missive,  and  reading  its 
ontents.  '  Well,  Clifton,  we  are  to  have  no 
more  fighting  at  present,  for  our  battalion  is 
icre  ordered  to  turn  our  backs  upon  the  en 
;rny,  and  to  take  up  our  quarters  at  Monte- 
ey!' 


In  accordance  with  this  order,  the   Light 
dragoons,  on  the  following  morning,  left  the 
cenes  of   their  recent  great   and  glorious 
conflict. 

Without  meeting  with  any  startling  adven- 
ures  on  the  route,  our  friends,  after  a  march 
f  eight  or  ten  days,  once  more  entered  the 
leasant  city  of  Monterey  ;  and  there  was 
ot  one  among  them  all  who  experienced  so 
much  delight  on  arriving  hither,  as  Lieuten- 
rit  Allston.  He  had  made  a  confidante  of 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


his  captain,  and  had  related  most  minutely 
all  the  details  of  his  romantic  adventures,  in 
which  Donna  Elvira  was  so  intimately  con 
nected.  Clifton,  at  his  request,  and  feeling 
a  peculiar  interest  in  his  young  friend's  hap- 
piness, consented  to  accompany  him  on  a 
visit  to  the  Alcalde's  residence,  where  he 
had  left  Elvira.  By  permission  of  the  gen- 
eral-in-chief,  Clifton  was  allowed  to  make 
an  excursion  in  the  direction  of  the  village 
with  his  company,  and  he  resolved  to  em- 
brace this  opportunity  to  gratify  the  wishes 
of  his  brother  officer. 

The  corps  left  Monterey  at  sunrise,  and 
without  meeting  with  any  adventures  on  the 
route,  they  reached  the  village  at  the  break- 
fast hour,  much  to  the  consternation  of  the 
inhabitants,  who  feared  that  they  had  appear- 
ed for  the  purpose  of  ravaging  their  peace- 
ful home.*.     The   Alcalde  made  his  appear- 
ance, and  enquired  the  object  of  this   unex- 
pected visit  from  an   armed  force ;  and  on 
being  assured  by  Clifton  that  his  errand  was 
of  the  most  pacific    character,   the   worthy 
Alcalde  offered  the  hospitalities  of  his  casa 
to  the  officers,  while  he  directed  several  of 
the  leading  men  of  the  village  to  see  that  a 
collation  was  prepared  for  the  rank  and  file. 
As  the  officers  followed   the  Alcalde  into 
the  mansion,  the  eyes  of  Allston   were  busy 
in  looking  around  for  the   loved  one  he  had 
hoped  to  meet  there,  but  she  made  not  her 
appearance.     At  length,  addressing  the  hos- 
pitable Mexican,  he  enquired  for  the  Senor- 
ita  Espindola,  who  had  placed  herself  under 
his  protection  after  the  decease  of  her  father. 
'  She  is  yet  under  my  care,'  answered  the 
Alcalde. 

*  I  would  speak  with  her,'  pursued  Alls- 
ton. 


'  Alas,  the  poor  child  will  speak  with  no 
one.  She  is  almost  inconsolable  on  account 
of  the  death  of  her  father,  or  the  absence  of 
her  lover.' 

'  You  do  not  remember  that  we  have  met 
before?'  said  Allston. 

'  Methinks  I  do,'  answered  the  Alcalde, 
Si,  si !  Santa  Maria  !  Thou  art  the  young 

American  who Si,  si !  I  know  thee 

now  !  I'll  call  the  dear  young  lady  !  She'll 

be  rejoiced  to  see  thee !  I  know  she ' 

and  without  finishing  the  sentence  he  ran  to 
call  Elvira. 

Quickly  she  obeyed  the  summons,  and  ap- 
peared before  the  Dragoon  officers — in  an- 
other moment  she  was  clasped  in  the  em- 
brace of  Henry  Allston ! 

We  shall  not  attempt  to  describe  the  joy 
f  this  meeting,  nor  repeat  all  that  was  ut- 
tered during  an  interview  of  two  hours  !  but 
t  ultimately  resulted  in  Allston's  prevailing 
upon  Elvira  to  re'urn   with  them  to  Monte- 
ey.     Perhaps,   with   his  persuasion   alone, 
she  would   not  have  consented,   for  Clifton 
assured  her  that  she   had    other    friends  in 
Monterey  who  would  bedelighted  by  a  visit 
from  ber,   and  he  mentioned  the  names  of 
Colonel  Granville  and  his  fair  daughter,  Ro- 
salia ! 

The  mere  mention  of  these  individual*, 
awakened  new  feelings  in  the  heart  of  El- 
vira, and  she  expressed  the  strongest  desire 
to  accompany  them. 

The  Alcalde,  offering  no  objection,  Elvi- 
ra prepared  herself  for  the  journey,  and  with 
a  gallant  company  of  Light  Dragoons  as  an 
escort,  and  mounted  upon  a  handsome  steed, 
was  soon  on  the  road  leading  to  Monterey. 


THE     LIGHT     DRAGOON 


CHAPTER    XVI. 


Elvira  loith  her  American  Friends  in  Monterey.  Her  Birth-Day.  Opening  of  the 
Sealed  Packet.  Wonderful  Disclosures.  Colonel  Granvillc  Jinds  a  Daughter.  El- 
vira Jinds  a '  Father.  Rosalia  Jinds  a  Sister.  The  Lovers  acknowledge  their 
Sweethearts- — and  all  '  goes  merry  as  a  Marriage  Bell.' 


. 

ET  us,  patient  reader,  now 
look  in  upon  a  group  of  our 
characters,  who  were  assem- 
bled at  Colonel  Granville's 
quarters  in  the  City  of  Monte- 
rey. It  was  at  that  delightful  hour  prior  to 
the  setting  of  the  sun,  or  just  at  that  period 
when  that  bright  luminary  had  sunk  behind 
the  mountains  which  rear  their  snow-capped 
peaks  westward  of  the  captured  city.  Clif- 
ton, Allston,  with  the  Senorita  Espindola, 
had  but  a  little  time  previous  paid  their  res- 
pects to  the  Colonel  and  his  daughter.  It 
scarcely  need  be  said  that  this  meeting  was 
a  happy  one  to  all  parties — it  could  not  have 
been  otherwise  under  the  circumstances — 
but  it  would  be  extremely  difficult  to  say 
which  one  of  the  group  experienced  the 
most  felicity  on  the  occasion. 

Major  Granville  and  Rosalia  both  appear- 
ed to  feel  the  most  lively  interest  in  the  fair 
Mexican  ;  indeed,  the  former  made  so  many 
inquiries  respecting  her  career,  that  he 
might  have  been  deemed  inquisitive,  even 
impertinent  in  a  young  man  ;  though  in  him, 
who  manifested  such  kind  interest  in  pursu- 
ing his  inquiries,  that  it  was  viewed  by  her 
and  by  all  present  in  an  opposite  light.  Ro- 
salia, too,  took  part  in  the*converdation,  and 


on  her  father's  turning  to  her  and  asking  her 
age,  she  replied — 

'  In  November,  the  fourteenth  day  I  shall 
be  seventeen/ 

'  You're  right,  Rosa,'  said  the  colonel. 

'•I  am  your  senior  by  upwards  of  three 
years,'  remarked  Elvira ;  '  on  the  seventeenth 
of  this  month  I  shall  be  twenty. 

1  Seventeenth !'  repeated  the  colonel,  re- 
ferring to  a  miniature  almanac  ;  '  why,  then, 
this  is  your  birth-day.' 

*  It  is,  indeed  !'  exclaimed  Elrira,  with  en- 
thusiasm ;  '  in  the  excitement  of  this  day  I 
had  quite  forgotten  it,  although  it  has  more 
than  a  birth-day's  importance  to  me.    I  have 
a  duty  to  perform,  which  is  no  less  than  to 
break  the  seal  of  a  mysterious  packet  that 
was  given  me  by  my  father  on  his  death-bed. 
If  I  may  be  excused  I  will  retire  for  a  short 
time ;  and  yet  I  had  instruction   to  open  it 
in  the  presence  of  a  witness.' 

*  Let  me  be  that  witness,'  said  Rosalia, 
noticing  the  sudden  emotion  which  this  cir- 
cumstance  had  caused  her  friend. 

*  I  thank  you,  Rosalia,'  she  replied. 
The  two  fair  ones  then  arose  and   retired 

to  Rosalia's  chamber ;  and  after  seating 
themselves,  Elvira  took  from  her  bosom,  with 
a  trembling  hand,  the  mysterious  packet  that 
until  that  day  she  had  injunctions  not  to  op- 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


07 


en.     She  broke  the  seal — tore  off  the  envel- 
ope— and  the  first  words  that  met  her  eye, 
written  in  a  bold  hand,  were  these  : 
"  DON  FERNANDEZ  ESPINDOLA  is  NOT  THY 
FATHER  !" 

Elvira  was  startled,  indeed,  on  reading 
this  significant  sentence ;  but,  recovering 
her  first  surprise,  she  broke  another  seal,  and 
on  opening  it,  sli2  found  a  hair  necklace, 
and  on  the  clasp  was  engraved — 

"  ELVIRA,  JAN.  17,  1830." 

On  the  envelope  which  contained  it,  was 
written — 

"  THIS  NECKLACE  WAS  WORN  BY  THEE  WHEN 

AN  INFANT  I' 

There  was  yet  another  seal — it  was  brok- 
en, and  she  found  a  letter  addressed  to  her, 
and  which  she  read  aloud.  It  was  as  fol- 
lows : — 

<c  DEAREST  ELVIRA  : — Thou  art  not  my 
(daughter;  yet  hast  thou  been  a  comfort  to 
my  declining  years.  The  circumstances  at- 
tending thy  being  placed  under  my  protec- 
tion were  simply  these  : — In  years 'gone  by 
iit  was  my  custom  to  travel  much  among  the 
Indians  at  the  north,  for  the  purpose  of  traf- 
ficking with  them,  which  1  did  to  a  consid- 
erable extent  in  jewelry  and  other  cvnaments; 
and  gained  by  dealing  with  them. honestly, 
not  only  their  confidence  but  their  friend- 
ship. On  one  of  these  trading  excursions 
1  fell  in  with  a  party  of  Seminoles,  whose 
acquaintance  I  had  previously  formed.  They 
were  just  returning  from  an  incursion  into 
that  part  of  the  Florida  territory  then  in  the 
military  possession  of  the  United  States. — 
They  had  been  successful,  and  were  ladened 
with  the  trophies  and  valuables  they  had 
gained  during  the  expedition.  The  chief  of 
the  party,  who  had  conceived  a  particular 
fancy  to  me,  invited  me  to  share  the  hospi- 
talities of  his  wigwam,  which  I  accepted. — 
When  I  entered  I  manifested  no  little  sur- 
prise on  beholding  in  the  arms  of  his  squaw 
an  infant,  apparently  but  a  few  months  old  ! 
My  surprise  did  not  escape  the  notice  of  my 


savage  host,  and  he  satisfied  my  eager  curi- 
osity by  telling  me  that  the  infant  was  the 
offspring  of  a  commander  of  one  of  the  pale 
faces'  forts  he  had  surprised  and  demolished, 
and  whose  mother  he  said  was  killed  in  the 
conflict.  On  my  enquiring  as  to  his  future 
intentions  towards  the  helpless  babe,  to  my 
horror  he  informed  me  with  the  utmost  cool- 
ness that  it  was  to  be  massacred,  to  avenge 
the  many  injuries  he  had  received  from  the 
father  of  the  white  papoose.  I  immediately 
remonstrated  against  his  cruel  intent  with- 
out effect — I  entreated,  I  implored  him  to 
spare  the  life  of  the  littfe  innocent  but  he 
was  inexorable.  At  length,  finding  my  ef- 
forts unavailing,  I  tried  the  virtue  of  some 
of  my  most  valuuble  trinkets.  His  revenge- 
ful and  barbarous  determination  I  perceived 
began  to  relax  as  soon  as  his  eyes  feasted 
upon  the  gorgeous  display  my  jewelry  made. 
Following  up  the  advantage  I  had  thus  gain- 
ed by  other  valuables,  I  at  length  gained  his 
consent  to  spare  the  life  of  the  child,  provid- 
ed I  would  take  it  forever  from  his  sight, 
and  swear  by  the  Great  Spirit  that  I  would 
adopt  it  as  my  own,  and  not  to  take  any 
measures  to  find  the  parent  of  the  child,  or 
any  of  its  connections,  until  twenty  years 
from  the  di\v»  of  the  necklace  about  its  neck 
should  have  passed  away,  and  also  that  1 
should  conceal,  until  the  end  of  that  period, 
the  dated  necklace.  Finding  that  thesr 
terms  only  would  satisfy  the  savage,  1  took 
the  required  oath,  and  have  faithfully  kep 
it.  The  necklace  which  is  herewith  enclo- 
sed is  the  identical  one  spoken  of.  I  neec: 
not  say  that  it  once  encircled  thy  neck,  ana 
that  thou,  Elvira,  wast  the  infant  whom  J 
rescued  from  savage  vengeance  !  I  have  ev- 
er loved  thee  with  almost  a  parent's  tender-* 
ness ;  and  have,  as  thou  already  knowest, 
bequeathed  to  thee  all  the  wealth  that  I  pos- 
sess. When  this  is  opened — as  I  know  thou 
wilt  not  violate  my  dying  injunctions — thon 
wilt  be  twenty  years  of  age,  judging  from 
the  date  upon  the  clasp  of  the  necklace.— 
I  know  that  thy  desire  will  be  great  to  find 


THE    LIGHT     DRAGOON. 


thy  parents  and  those  of  kindred  blood.  To 
facilitate  thy  search,  I  would  advise  thee, 
when  a  good  opportunity  offers,  to  repair  to 
the  capital  of  the  United  States,  where  thou 
wilt  be  enabled  to  learn  the  names  of  the 
several  commanders  who  were  stationed  in 
Florida,  during  the  years  1829  and  '30,  or 
up  to  the  time  of  thy  being  made  a  captive 
by  the  Indirais. 

God  bless  thee,  Elvira,  and  may  he  grant 
thee  a  long  life  of  unalloyed  felicity. 

(Signed,)  E*PINDOLA." 

Elvira,  wonder-struck  at  this  startling  rev- 
elation, could  not  give  utterance  to  the  con- 
flicting thoughts  which  rushed  into  her  mind, 
and  she  biirst  into  a  flood  of  tears.  They 
wer«  not  tears  of  grief;  nor  were  they  tears 
of  joy  ;  but  shed  from  purely  sympathetic 
and  grateful  impulses  for  him  who  for  a  score 
of  years  had  been  almost  wholly  devoted  to 
render  her  happy.  Espindola  had,  truly, 
been  a  parental  protector,  yet  that  true  af- 
fection existing  between  a  father  and  his 
child  was  not  apparent.  It  was  of  a  differ- 
ent nature  and  beyond  our  power  of  analyz- 
ing. 

Rosalia,  too,  was  startled  at  this  revela- 
tion, and  with  tears  of  sympathy  in  her 
>yes,  and  with  her  arms  entwined  in  sisterly 
affection  around  her  neck,  endeavored 
to  soothe  her  agitation.  Elvira,  at  length, 
ceased  weeping,  and  gazed  with  intense  in- 
terest upon  her  fair  comforter,  and  for  some 
time  they  remained  clasped  in  each  other's 
embrace  from  impulses  neither  understood 
nor  dreamed  of.  Never  did  two  human  be- 
ings, bound  together  by  a  sentiment  wholly 
inexplicable,  render  humanity  more  lovely 
and  angelic,  than  they.  For  nearly  two 
hours  did  they  commune  together,  and  nev- 
er did  lovers'  moments  pass  more  fleetly  by. 

Colonel  Granville,  becoming  impatient  at 
the  protracted  absence  of  the  young  ladies., 
and  thinking  that  no  ordinary  matter  would 
keep  them  absent  so  long,  excused  himself 
to  his  brother  officers,  and  hastened  to  learn 
the  cause  of  their  delay. 


The  door  of  Rosalia's  apartment  was  op- 
en, and  as  the  colonel  approached,  he  be- 
held  his  daughter  and  the  fair  Mexican  with 
their  right  hands  clasped  and  their  left  arms 
resting  upon  each  other's  neck.  As  he  en- 
tered, Rosalia  arose  and  said, — 

*  Father,  I  know  you  will  excuse  our  long 
.ebsence,  when  you  have  heard  the  wonder- 
ful things,  regarding  our  dear  friend,  which 
have  been  revealed  to  me.  She  has  been  so 
deeply  affected  by  it,  that  I  chose  to  remain 
with  her  rather  than  rejoin  our  company  be 
low.' 

'Indeed/  said  the  father,  '  I  tsust  it  is  no 
a  matter  of  serious  import  ?' 

'  Kind  sir,'  said  Elvira,  addressing  Gran 
ville,  perhaps  your  profession  will  enable  you 
to  give  me  some  information  whereby  lighl 
may  be  thrown  upon  the  mystery  that  has 
long  overshadowed  me,  and  which  is  partial' 
ly  revealed  in  these  words;'  and  she  place( 
in  his  hand  the  sentence  which  had- at  first 
so  startled  her. 

He  took  the  paper  and  read — "  Don  Fer- 
nandez Espindola  is  not  thy  father  !" — '  This 
is  truly  mysterious,'  he  continued  ;  '  but  be 
consoled,  Elvira — a  friend  you  shall  never 
want  so  long  as  I  live  ;  but  is  this  all  V 

1  No,  kind  sir,  here  is  a  letter  that  was  al- 
so contained  in  the  packet  relative  to  the 
perils  of'my  infancy,'  said  Elvira,  giving 
him  Espindola's  communication. 

The  colonel  seated  himself  near  the  win- 
dow to  peruse  it,  as  the  grey  shadows  of  twi- 
light had  already  begun  to  darken  the  earth 
He  had  read  but  a  few  sentences  when  his 
eyes  glowed  with  an  eager  interest — soon 
the  hand  which  held  the  paper  began  to 
tremble — his  lip  quivered — and  as  he  read 
on  his  whole  frame  seemed  almost  convulsed 
with  agitation ; — at  the  same  time  there  was 
a  rigid  smile  upon  his  noble  features.  At 
length  the  communication  dropped  from  his 
hand — his  respiration  was  rapid  and  heavy 
— drops  of  perspiration  stood  upon  his  brow 
— and  his  eyes  gleamed  with  unwonted  lus- 
tre. 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


Rosalia,  observing  how  violent  were  his 
ejnotions,  ran  towards  him  and  exclaimed  : 

'  Oh,  my  father !  you  are  ill !' 

'  No,  my  child,  no !  Elvira,  asked  he, 
eagerly,  '  have  you  the  necklace  here  spok- 
eii  of?' 

*  This  is  it,'  said  she,  handing  it  to  him, 
and  wondering  at  the  strange  interest  he 
manifested. 

'  It  is  !  it  is  the  same  !'  he  exclaimed  with 
joy  almost  overpowering.  '  Oh,  God,  thy 
ways  are,  indeed,  inscrutable  and  wonderful ! 
Elvira,  look  at  me — I  AM  THY  FATHER! — 
you  are  my  long  lost  and  beloved  child  !' 

'  MY  father  !  oh,  this  is  the  most  blissful 
moment  of  my  existence  !'  she  cried,  as  she 
Hew  to  his  arms  and  was  clasped  in  his  em* 
brace,  while  tears  gushed  from  the  fountain 
of  bliss  of  both  father  and  child. 

Rosalia  regarded  this  scene  with  almost 
mute  astonishment.  Here  was  a  mystery 
totally  inexplicable  to  her. 

'  Rosalia,  embrace  thy  SISTER*!'  said  the 
overjoyed  colonel,  after  the  first  ebullition  of 
feeling  had  somewhat  subsided.  '  You  had 
two  mothers — but  only  one  father  !' 

The  arms  of  the  sisters  were  again  warmly 
encircled  about  each  other's  necks,  and  their 
lips  met — it  was  the  first  kiss  of  a  sisterly 
love. 

The  father  at  length  explained  to  his 
daughters  the  circumstances  attending  the 
loss  of  Elvira's  mother,  whom  he  wedded  at 
Pensacola,  and  who  was  the  daughter  of  a 
nobleman,  banished  from  Spain  ;  and,  also, 
of  his  reasonable  supposition  that  the  infant 
whom  the  savages,  conveyed  away  fell  a  vic- 
tim to  their  burning  vengeance. 

Thus  was  revealed  to  father  and  daughters 
the  unaccountable  and  deep  interest  each 
had  felt  for  the  other  irom  the  perilqAJ  hour 
when  they  first  met. 

There  never  was  a.  happier  man  than  the 
veteran  colonel  after  this  discovery.  The 
evening  having  now  considerably  advanced 
he  returned  to  his  military  friends  below, 
and  excused  the  non-appearance  of  the  la- 


dies, and  promised  them  that,  if  they  would 
but  visit  his  quarters  at  a  certain  hour  on  the 
next  day,  he  would  afford  them  an  agreeable 

surprise. 

****** 

Punctual  to  the  appointed  hour  Captain 
Clifton  and  Lieutenant  Allston  made  their 
appearance,  when  to  their  infinite  wonder, 
Colonel  Granville  introduced  them  to  Elvira 
Granville,  his  newly  found  daughter  ! 

Obeying  the  unreserved  impulses  of  her 
nature,  Elvira,  on  seeing  Allston,  received 
him  with  rather  more  warmth  than  is  usually 
exhibited  excepting  aTnong  acknowledged 
lovers. 

Granville,  perceiving  this,  looked  at  Clif- 
ton, with  an  expression  iu  his  countenance 
that  seemed  to  enquire — 'What  does  ih'n 
mean  ?' 

'Do  not  be  alarmed,  colonel,  at  this  little 
ebullition  of  affection,'  said  Clifton;  'they 
have  been  already  too  much  in  each  other's 
society  to  act  otherwise.  Be  assured,  sir, 
they  have  a  mutual  understanding.' 
•  '  I  see — I  see — there's  not  a  doubt  of  it/ 
replied  Granville.  '  Well,  well,  Alhton  is 
a  brave,  a  gallant,  and  a  noble-hearted  fel- 
loM' — I  shall  be  proud  to  acknowledge  him 
as  my  son-in  law.  '  I  see  how  it  is,  lieuten- 
ant,' he  continued,  turning  to  Allston,  '  and 
I  perceive  that  matters  between  you  have 
approached  too  near  a  climax,  fqr  me  to  op- 
pose any  obstacle  to  your  future  happiness. 
You  have  my  hearty  approval  without  asking 
for  it;  and  I'm  sure  you'll  never  rue  the  day 
you  came  to  Mexico.' 

'Never,  believe  me,'  replied  the   happy, 
lieutenant.     '  Cupid  has  done  for  me  that 
which  escopeta  balls  have  failed  to  do.' 

'  I  marvel  not  when  I  look  upon  the  cause. 
Rosa,'  said  the  colonel,  '  come  hither.  I 
have  a  word  or  two  to  say  to  you,  touching 
this  same  sharp-shooting  love-god.  I  never 
heard  a  syllable  upon  the  universal  topic 
of  love  pass  between  Captain  CJifton  and 
yourself;  but  as  I  am  an  old  campaigner  in 
'.Cupid's  affairs,  I  can  read  the  meaning  of  a 


100 


THE    LIGHT    DRAGOON. 


glance,  a  smile,  or  a  sigh,  just  as  easily  as  if 
expressed  in  words*  I  have  constituted  my- 
self a  '  corps  of  observation '  upon  your 
manccuvering  for  some  time,  and  if  I  have 
been  out-generalled  this  time,  I'll  confess  I 
have  lost  the  art  of  divining  the  secrets  of 
the  heart  through  the  eyes — those  '  windows 
of  the  soul,'  as  some  poet  hath  it.  But  to 
the  point — you  love  each  other  ! — Now  don't 
deny  it  because,  perchance,  you  have  never 
confessed  it  to  each  other — I'm  satisfied  you 
have  confessed  it  to  your  own  hearts!  If 
I'm  wrong  say  so,  and  hereafter  set  me  down 
a  superanuated  old  fool  !'  ' 

This  was  an  awkward  as  well  as  a  critical 
moment  for  the  gallant  captain  and  the  fair 
Rosalia  ;  they  were'  both  considerably  abash- 
ed, and  dared  not  look  up  in  fear  of  encoun- 
tering each  other's  gaze. 

At  length  Clifton  mustered  up  a  little 
couraged  and  essayed  to  speak — he  stam- 
mered forth  the  following  : 

'  I — I  con — that  is,  I  suppose — I  may  as 
well  confess — — ' 

*  That  I  have  read  your  eyes  aright  ?'  sug- 
gested the  colonel* 

4  Precisely  so,'  replied  Clifton  ;  '  I  do  love 
Rosilia.' 

'And  I — '    The  abashed  girl   could 

utter  no  more,  but  did  n.ot  snatch  away  her 
pretty  hand  when  Clifton  took  it  and  raised 
&  to  her  lips  to  kiss :  in  the  next  moment  she 


concealed    her    happy    emotions    upon  his 
manly  breast.' 

'There  now,'  said  the  delighted  colonel  ; 
'  things  are  as  they  should  be!  I  knew  I. 
was  right !  Well,  my  children — and  I  hope 
soon  to  call  you  so — our  time  of  service 
soon  expires  in  the  army,  when  we  shall  re- 
turn to  the  United  States  ;  and  if  GranVille 
cottage  does  not  resound  once  more  with  the 
merry  music  of  glad  voices,  then  my  predic- 
tions, which  seldom  fail,  will  be  naught. 


The  Light  Dragoons,  their  term  of  enlist- 
ment expiring,  soon  returned  to  the  United 
States.  The  colonel's  prophecy  is  not  yet 
fulfilled,  but  it  is  rumored  that  great  prepar- 
ations are  making  at  Granville  Cottage,  to 
consummate  the  happiness  of  at  least  five  of 
our  characters.  Should  anything  occur  to 
mar  the  intended  happy  event,  our  readers 
shall  be  duly  informed. 

It  is  Allston's  intention  as  soon  as  *  Peace 
is  conquered' — or  rather  as  soon  as  Mexico' 
!s  conquered — to  return  to  that  country  for,; 
the  purpose  of  claiming  the  estates  of  the 
deceased  Espindola,  in  the  name  of  the 
heiress,  Elvira. 

Thus,  kind  reader,  we  complete  our  task  ; 
aud  our  only  hope  is,  that  you  have  derived 
some  pleasure  in  poring  over  the  pages  of 
'  The  Light  Dragoon.' 


THE  END, 


' 


